MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Gov. Kay Ivey has rescheduled the state’s primary runoff election due to concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Exercising my extraordinary powers under the Emergency Management Act, I am setting Alabama’s Primary Runoff Election for July 14, 2020,” Ivey said. “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 well-being of Alabama citizens is paramount.
“Our State Health Officer, Dr. Scott Harris, is recommending that we should practice social distancing and refrain from public gatherings of more than 25 individuals. Maintaining a six-foot distance between one another is paramount. This guidance alone would be making an election day a hotbed for spreading the virus.
“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 most at-risk adds the necessity to extend the election runoff date.
“Delaying the election to July 14 is not a decision I came to lightly, but one of careful consideration. I appreciate the guidance of Attorney General Steve Marshall and Secretary of State John H. Merrill for their collaboration to ensure the continuity of our state government.”
On Tuesday afternoon, the Attorney General issued an emergency ruling declaring that Gov. Ivey had the authority to delay the runoff under the State of Emergency declaration.
The Secretary of State is encouraging anyone who is concerned about contracting the virus or spreading the illness to vote by absentee ballot. For information regarding voter registration, locating a polling place, or how to obtain an absentee ballot, visit the Secretary of State’s website.
