Polls open across the state as Election Day 2020 gets underway

It’s election day across the United States and polls are now open in Mississippi. 

Polls opened at 7 a.m. and will remain open until 7 p.m. If you’re in line when the polls close, you will be able to cast your ballot. Make sure you bring a photo ID with you when you go vote.

Headlined by the presidential election, Mississippians will also vote in a tightly contested rematch in the US Senate race between incumbent Republican Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith and Democratic challenger Mike Espy in today’s election.  

Three of the state’s four Congressmen face challengers and two state Supreme Court Justice seats are up for grabs as well. 

In addition to the political races, Mississippians will also have the opportunity to vote on three statewide ballot measures including the possible legalization of medical marijuana, an amendment to the statewide election process and a new state flag proposal. 

As you get ready for election day, check out the following reminders from the Secretary of State’s office. 

  • Mail-In Absentee Voting Deadline: All mail-in absentee ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (November 3) and received within five business days of Election Day in order to count.
  • Polling Place Location: Please contact your county Circuit Clerk’s Office or local Election Commissioners for updates regarding your polling place. Several counties have changed polling places since the 2020 Primary Election.
  • Voter Photo ID: Voters are required to show photo identification at the polls.  A voter without an acceptable form of photo identification is entitled to cast an affidavit ballot.  An affidavit ballot may be counted if the voter provides an acceptable form of photo identification to the Circuit Clerk’s Office within five business days after the election. Click here for more information.
  • Campaigning: It is unlawful to campaign for any candidate or ballot measure within 150 feet of any entrance to a polling place, unless on private property.
  • Loitering: The polling places should be clear for 30 feet from every entrance of all people except elections officials, voters waiting to vote, or authorized poll watchers.
  • Camera Phones: Voters are prohibited from taking pictures of their marked ballot.
  • COVID-19: Our office supplied every county with COVID-19 safety supplies and personal protective equipment for poll managers. County officials have been instructed to sanitize and disinfect high-touch areas at each precinct. Voters are encouraged to practice good hygiene and follow CDC guidelines at the polls.

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