Local residents share their concerns about voting at the polls during the pandemic

In Lauderdale County, some voters shared that they are concerned about voting at the polls tomorrow during the pandemic.

The Lauderdale County Election Commission stated that for the election on Tuesday, November 3, social distancing will be enforced for those waiting to vote, and voters will be required to wear masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19 at the polls. There will also be hand sanitizing stations at each voting precinct for voters to have access to.

Even with these methods being put in place, one woman shared that she is still concerned about voting during the pandemic. “I’m definitely concerned, but I’m also very concerned about voting also. so, either way it goes, I’m going to vote,” said Charita Dean.

One man shared that he was very concerned about going to the polls on election day, so he decided to vote in person via absentee, saying that he was still cautious when doing so.

“I made sure I had my mask on, and I was watching the other people to make sure they had their masks on. concerned for my safety –and their safety also,” said Larry Howard. While concerned about COVID-19, two Mississippians shared that they believe their fellow voters will follow the social distancing guidelines that will be enforced at the polls.

“People don’t want the virus and people can understand here in Mississippi, especially in newton county, where I’m from. we pretty much social distance anyway. So, down in our area people going to social distance, they’re going to spread themselves out and not be so close to one another,” said Darnell Brown.

“Whether or not the lines are long, me personally, I’m going to socially distance, and everybody else, I pretty much think they know, and I think if this is important to them, so I’m thinking they’ll follow the guidelines,” said Dean.

According to the Lauderdale County Election Commission, the voting precincts will be fully staffed with poll workers to ensure that the guidelines they have set for voting during the pandemic are being followed.