By james art LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Election Day is almost a week away and early voting closes this Friday night.
Lubbock County Elections Administrator Roxine Stinson is impressed with the turnout so far.
“It’s going very well. We got up to 62,375 I think by yesterday. That’s 31.4 percent of registered voters in Lubbock County, and that’s great,” Stinson said. “I’m really happy, and as I said today in Commissioners Court, I really am, and our whole staff is grateful that people got involved.”
Stinson says there are rules people must follow to vote.
One of the things she encourages people to be aware of is what they bring to the polls to vote.
“You cannot and should not wear t-shirts, hats, jackets, pins, buttons, anything from past or present elections,” Stinson said. “And the law was changed for a few years where you can carry from a previous election, but about a year ago, or maybe about nine months ago, they changed that. It all goes back to everything – nothing from past or current elections – you’re not allowed to carry there.”
As for anyone who may be concerned about the safety of their vote, the election office says it is working hard to be transparent with voters and ensure the vote is secure.
“We’re doing everything we can to make sure those votes are safe and where the ballots are that come in every night from early voting is under camera.” You can see them or where our equipment is that is pre-defined and ready to go out is under camera,” Stinson said. “And even our ballot scanners that go out on election day — they’re under camera. They (are) predetermined and ready to go out so that anyone can watch us at any time.”
There are more than 198,000 registered voters in Lubbock County. Stinson encourages everyone to do their civic duty.
“Well, it is very important. You want your voice to be heard. If you want your voice to be heard, you have to get out and vote,” Stinson said. “I know looking at the weather, we have a good chance of rain on the last day of early voting, so I encourage people to get out early just in case.” On Election Day, we currently have 50 seats that will be open.”
The Elections Office encourages the community to call them with any questions and they will be happy to help.
For any questions or information about voting, click here.
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