Early voting already underway in Monterey County, how election leaders are working to keep voters safe
SALINAS, Calif.( KION-TV)-Early voting in Monterey County is already underway. In some parts of the country, some groups were stationed outside of Election Offices, watching voters drop of their ballots.
Under California, electioneering or challenging a person’s right to vote is prohibited
The Monterey County Elections office told KION it's received no reports of voter intimidation.
The Election Office said security measures are in place and poll workers are also go through extensive training, so voters can be assured that they can vote safely and securely.
It's essential to have polling places free of any sort of fears.
“Regardless of how I voted, I didn't feel intimidated,” said Frank Savino of Salinas. “I just felt the need to place it somewhere. I just wanted to make sure it got to a place”
The Elections Offices also told KION it's already seen a steady stream of voters, and mail-in ballots coming in. If you've made up your mind and know what you're voting for, the election office urges people to go and vote early.
“That's why we keep saying more ways, more days to vote,” said Gina Martinez, the Registrar of Voters. “It’s up to the voter to determine what the most comfortable avenue for voting for them is. We have options and opportunities for everyone at this point.”
When voters head down to a polling place, like the Monterey Elections Office, signs like "no electioneering within 100-feet" are posted out front. That includes wearing slogans and bringing in signs to the polling place. Notices are also posted around to remind voters what the regulations are.
“This is a safe and neutral place to cast a ballot,” said Martinez. “Electioneering for and against a candidate or measure on the ballot needs to stay 100-feet away from the ballot.”
People who do come with a hat or button with a slogan will be asked to remove it.
The election office also said it wants to be accessible for those with bumper stickers and will work with those voters.
According to the California Secretary of State website, anyone who violates the election process can face a hefty fine or even jail time.
