Baldwin County has seen unprecedented growth over the past 10 years, leading election officials to make changes. As the 2024 general election approaches, preparations are underway in hopes that voting will go smoothly.
"The unique thing about Baldwin County is that it's basically an all Republican County," said Probate Judge Harry D'Olive. "I say that because in 2020, we had a 62% turnout for the Presidential election, and that was an 80% straight-ticket Republican vote. So, you know and I expect it will be somewhat similar to that in November as well."
The county has added 10 additional voting precincts over the past two years. There are currently 205,000 registered voters in Baldwin County.
D'Olive said he has contacted federal officials to discuss safety measures. All officials, including the U.S. Attorney's Office and the FBI, agree there are no foreseeable threats or issues.
"There's a federal task force for any type of election issues and federal election crimes," he explained. "As part of that task force, they meet with the election officials to see if there are any issues or make us aware of who to contact if we should have an issue that would involve them on election day."
When it comes to concerns over illegal voting by non-citizens, D'Olive said only U.S. citizens would be allowed to cast ballots in Baldwin County.
Poll workers are also preparing by undergoing training. Out of more than 750 people who attended election school, just under 600 poll workers were recently appointed.
"The voter registration process is handled through the Board of Registrars," D'Olive said. "So, when they come to the polling place, if they're on the voter's list, then we can only assume that they've been properly vetted and allowed to register to vote."
D'Olive suggested everyone familiarize themselves with the ballot before heading to the polls. He said if voters are informed before voting day, the process will be quicker and more efficient..
"It's a very simple ballot," he said. "There are three local constitutional amendments and all three are creating landmark districts for three different communities in the county. Otherwise, there's only two contested races in Baldwin County and they are the state race for the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and the Congressional District 1 race."
The Alabama Secretary of State's website has sample ballots published for each county.
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