Emergency Voting Measures Implemented in North Carolina as Hurricane Helene Hits
In response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, the bipartisan election board of North Carolina has reached a unanimous decision to implement emergency provisions for voters in 13 of the state’s western counties. These measures aim to mitigate the storm’s effects on voter participation in the upcoming election, offering additional flexibility for absentee ballot processes.
Residents in the affected areas have been granted the opportunity to request ballots in person until Nov. 4, the day before Election Day, extending beyond the previous deadline of Oct. 29 for requesting an absentee ballot online. Moreover, voters can now submit their absentee ballots at any county board of elections across the state or at any polling site within their county, provided they are received by 7:30 p.m. ET on Election Day, Nov. 5.
The election board’s bipartisan resolution also empowers county election boards to modify early voting hours and relocate polling locations as necessary. This flexibility addresses the damages sustained by several planned polling sites, some of which are currently serving as shelters. Additionally, counties can hire poll workers from other regions and reallocate them to ensure adequate staffing at all voting sites.
The voter registration deadline of Oct. 11 remains unchanged; however, North Carolina offers same-day registration during early voting from Oct. 17 to Nov. 2, providing a second chance for those who missed the initial deadline.
Karen Brinson Bell, the executive director of the State Board of Elections, reassures voters that despite some ballot delays due to storm damage, tracking options remain available for absentee voters. The storm has severely disrupted mail services, particularly affecting five counties that currently lack retail or delivery service.
These emergency measures, approved by a bipartisan vote, are timely as early voting commences, ensuring that the aftermath of the storm does not impede citizens’ ability to vote.
Similar Measures in Neighboring States
Other states affected by the hurricane have also adapted their voting procedures. In Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis issued an executive order granting flexibility in 13 hurricane-impacted counties, permitting the relocation of polling sites and the use of drop boxes. Election officials have the option to enlist poll workers from different counties. Nevertheless, DeSantis maintained the voter registration deadline at Oct. 7.
In contrast, South Carolina has extended its registration deadline to Oct. 14. Meanwhile, Georgia reports that election procedures are expected to run smoothly, with only about 700 ballots delayed due to post office closures. Efforts are underway to ensure the timely delivery of these ballots to voters.
