North Carolina election officials scramble to ensure voter access in the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact on the state’s western region.
At a Glance
- Hurricane Helene caused over 190 deaths and widespread infrastructure damage in Western North Carolina
- State Board of Elections enacted emergency measures to adjust early voting sites and extend hours
- Absentee voting options expanded for displaced voters, with an October 29, 2024 request deadline
- Voter registration deadline remains October 11, 2024, with online and early voting site options
- Provisional ballots available for those unable to present photo IDs due to hurricane impact
Hurricane Helene’s Devastating Impact
Hurricane Helene has left a trail of destruction across Western North Carolina, claiming over 190 lives and causing widespread infrastructure damage. The storm’s aftermath has isolated towns, disrupted utilities, and posed significant challenges to the upcoming 2024 general election. With over a quarter-million mail ballots already requested, including 40,000 in disaster-designated counties, election officials face the daunting task of ensuring fair and accessible voting for all eligible citizens.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared Helene a disaster on September 28, 2024, affecting 25 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Tribal Area. This declaration has set in motion a series of emergency measures aimed at preserving the integrity of the electoral process while accommodating the needs of storm-affected voters.
Voters in western North Carolina impacted by Hurricane Helene's devastation may see several changes to how they can cast their ballots in the coming weeks after the state's election board approved an emergency resolution that modifies voting rules.https://t.co/0NFJxLulgZ
— CBS 17 (@WNCN) October 8, 2024
Emergency Measures and Voting Adaptations
In response to the crisis, the State Board of Elections has enacted an emergency declaration allowing affected counties to adjust early voting sites and extend voting hours. This flexibility is crucial in areas where traditional polling places may have been damaged or rendered inaccessible due to the hurricane’s impact.
“Our hearts go out to all North Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene, including our neighbors, friends and colleagues in Western North Carolina,” said Karen Brinson Bell, executive director of the State Board of Elections. “When disasters strike elections, we use this mantra: ‘We do not stop an election; we figure out how to proceed.'”
Absentee voting options have been significantly expanded to accommodate displaced voters. Residents can now request ballots be sent to new locations if they have been forced to relocate due to the storm. The deadline for absentee ballot requests is set for October 29, 2024, with online requests available through the North Carolina Absentee Ballot Portal.
Voter Registration and ID Requirements
Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Helene, the voter registration deadline remains October 11, 2024. Eligible citizens can register online or at early voting sites from October 17 to November 2. For those who have lost their state-mandated photo IDs in the hurricane, provisional ballots will be available, ensuring that no eligible voter is disenfranchised due to circumstances beyond their control.
To further assist voters, a special webpage has been launched to provide crucial information for those affected by the hurricane. This resource includes details on office closures, voting tips, and alternative voting methods. Additionally, printed materials with voting information are being distributed to areas without internet or phone service, ensuring that even the most isolated communities have access to essential electoral information.
Coordinated Efforts and Future Challenges
Federal and state coordination is ongoing to assess needs and provide funding for election administration in affected areas. Officials are working tirelessly to establish emergency polling places and consolidated polling sites where necessary. These efforts are complemented by the deployment of Multi-partisan Assistance Teams, tasked with aiding displaced voters and ensuring adherence to election deadlines.
As North Carolina navigates these unprecedented challenges, the state’s commitment to democratic principles remains unwavering. By implementing flexible voting options, leveraging technology, and prioritizing voter education, election officials are striving to maintain the integrity of the electoral process while ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to make their voice heard in the 2024 general election.
"North Carolina’s election board voted Monday to give residents in the western part of the state, which was hit hardest by Hurricane Helene, greater flexibility to vote by mail and run their elections."
by @janestreet https://t.co/9w4sBTusx1
— Natasha Korecki (@natashakorecki) October 7, 2024
Sources:
- Election Officials Plan for Voting Post-Helene
- North Carolina Must Act to Ensure Access to the Ballot in the Aftermath of Helene
- Voters Affected by Helene
- North Carolina gives counties affected by Hurricane Helene voting flexibility
- North Carolina residents impacted by Helene likely to see some voting changes
- North Carolina changes election rules to help voters hit by hurricane Helene
- Swing State Faces ‘Daunting’ Election After Hurricane Helene: Official
