By Marla Jones, Managing Editor • marla@southerntorch.com
DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Governor Kay Ivey announced on Wednesday that the Alabama Primary Runoff Election would be moved to July 14, 2020, due to the concerns surrounding the Coranavirus pandemic.
“Exercising my extraordinary powers under the Emergency Management Act, I am setting Alabama’s Primary Election for July 14, 2020” state Governor Kay Ivey. “The ability to hold free and fair elections is an inherent right as citizens of the United States and the great state of Alabama, but the safety and wellbeing of Alabama citizens are paramount.”
Alabama State Health Officer, Dr. Scott Harris recommends practicing social distancing and refrain from public gatherings of more than 25 individuals.
“This guidance alone would be making an election day a hotbed for spreading the virus” stated Governor Ivey. “Persons who are 65 years or older, as well as those with previous heart and lung diseases, are more vulnerable to the Coronavirus. Knowing the average age of our faithful poll workers qualifies them to be more at-risk adds the necessity to extend the election runoff date.”
On Tuesday, Attorney General Steve Marshall issued an emergency ruling declaring Governor Ivey had the authority to delay the runoff.
“Governor Ivey has the legal authority under the Alabama Emergency Management Act to declare a state of emergency as a result of the current pandemic” stated Attorney General Steve Marshall. “She has the lawful ability to postpone a primary runoff election to protect public health and safety during the state of emergency.”
“Delaying the election to July 14 is not a decision I came to lightly, but one of careful consideration. I appreciated the guidance of Attorney General Steve Marshall and Secretary of State John H. Merrill for their collaboration to ensure the continuity of state government.”
“I am grateful to Governor Ivey and General Marshall for their proactive leadership, sincere dedication, and spirit of teamwork displayed during these difficult times,” added Secretary of State, John H. Merrill. “It is critical that we provide a safe and secure environment for all 3,585,209 voters in the State of Alabama to participate in the electoral process.”
The Secretary of State is encouraging anyone who is concerned with contracting the virus or spreading the illness to vote by absentee.