State releases election health protocols

The Texas Secretary of State’s office released guidance on recommended health protocols for election officials and voters Tuesday with precautions for COVID-19.

The list was provided in a checklist format as a minimum recommended health protocol for voters and officials and the release encourages both to make additional protocols if they have more specific needs. Any additional guidelines by elections officials must maintain the integrity of the election process, according to the release.

“The virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to others by infected persons who have few or no symptoms,” the office wrote in the protocols. “To mitigate this threat, everyone should rigorously follow the practices specified in these protocols, all of which facilitate a safe and measured reopening of Texas. The virus that causes COVID-19 is still circulating in our communities. We should continue to undertake practices that protect our communities.”

The next local election in Young County will be the Tuesday, July 14 Primary Runoff election, which will have no local candidates on the ballot. On the Republican ballot will be a vote for Justice, 2nd Court of Appeals District, Place 7, between Brian Walker and Elizabeth Beach. On the Democratic ballot will be a vote for U.S. Senator, between Royce West and Mary “MJ” Hegar and a vote for Railroad Commissioner, between Chrysta Castañeda and Roberto R. “Beto” Alonzo. The first day of early voting will be Monday, June 29 and the last day to register to vote will be Monday, June 15.

For the full story, see the Saturday, May 30 edition of The Graham Leader.