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Nueces County: Precautions in place for Tuesday's early-voting kickoff

Posted at 11:54 PM, Oct 09, 2020
and last updated 2020-10-10 00:55:48-04

Early voting for one of the most anticipated elections in the nation's history begins Tuesday.

Nueces County election officials are working feverishly to make sure our election process here gets a vote of approval.

Experts predict the busiest early voting period ever this this fall as people look to safely cast their ballots while avoiding crowds this election season.

Early voting runs from Oct. 13-30.

Here in Nueces County, voters will have 25 polling places available in which to cast their votes early -- the most ever locally.

Nueces County Clerk Kara Sands said her office will aim to make those polling places as safe as possible.

"Everyone working will be wearing masks,” she said. “We also provide the face shields -- all the PPE for our workers. We also have masks for voters if they forget one.”

Registered voter John McInnis was concerned about COVID-19 at polling places.

“Right now, it's more important because of our having to wear facemarks,” he said.

But most people we spoke with say they vote early because it's easier.

“It's less hassle,” said voter Trina Haley. “I don't want to wait until November 3rd and risk long lines or not feeling well that day and missing out.”

“I like the lack of crowds, and as a senior citizen, I get to do it early, so i'm happy to do that,” said voter Linda Arnold.

However, nationwide, voters are concerned, and that's why record numbers are expected.

Sands said voters can expect some changes from 2018.

“You're not going to be touching the equipment,” she said. “We're going to give you Q-tips. It's going to be handless voting, if you will.”

For a full list of early voting locations across the Coastal Bend, as well as other election information, click here.