Today was election day for the Texas Primary Runoff Election. After seeing news reports of long lines without adequate social distancing and stories of voter suppression, I wasn’t sure of what to expect.
The first polling location we drove to had suddenly closed due to COVID-19 regulations. There was a white sign outside of the building that gave two other polling locations. Only a few voters were inside when I entered the second polling location. Social distancing was being practiced and everyone had on masks. The recommended six feet distance was not marked off with tape, but people tried to give everyone space.
In addition to wearing a mask, the poll worker who took my license also wore gloves. When it was time to sign my name, there were two separate stacks of pens. I was instructed to take a pen from the clean stack. I did not initially see the labeling determining which pens were clean and those that had been used. After signing my name, I was given voting instructions and a Q-tip to use as a stylus while voting on the machine. After my ballot was recorded, I grabbed the I Voted Sticker and was out the door. I used my own hand sanitizer when I exited the building and washed my hands as soon as I made it home.
Overall, I felt the new changes were appropriate for voting during a pandemic. There was one large container of hand sanitizer at the poll worker’s table. In November, I hope there will be more hand sanitizer available. I also hope there will be no cases of voter suppression and that everyone will be able to peacefully and safely exercise their right to vote.
What has your experience been like while voting during the pandemic?
Xo
Lamesha