Your quarterly news & updates from the Supervisor of Elections Office.
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From Supervisor Chambless
"America was not built on fear- America was built on courage, on imagination and an unbeatable determination to do the job at hand."
Harry S. Truman
The 2020 Election Season has been referred to as “one for the books” for quite some time, but COVID-19 has effectively rewritten the books. Its impact has been felt by nearly every person, and industry, on the planet, and elections are no exception.
COVID-19 has created multiple challenges, personally and professionally, for most people. While it may make some parts of life a little more difficult, it’s also been a time to refocus on what’s truly important: our families and friends, and those personal connections easily taken for granted.
As we begin to emerge and navigate this new normal, let us not forget the lessons we’ve learned and the toll divisiveness can take on us. Let’s consider this our fresh start, a second chance to make better choices. How long has society, as a whole, lamented social media and technology for a myriad of problems? COVID-19 has demonstrated both the importance of it, to continue on with business, education, and other essential operations, and that, at the end of the day, human connection, even if not physical, is absolutely necessary.
Technology allows us to continue to serve our voters remotely. They can sign up for Vote by Mail, update their information, and more, all from the comfort of home. But, elections are about people, their beliefs, and what matters to them. In our hurry to get back to “normal” let’s not forget the lessons we’ve learned and, despite our differences, that we’re better together. COVID-19 may have brought new meaning to #PROTECT2020, but I hope to see you at the polls!
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Social Distancing? Find us online.
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Though Florida is beginning to lift its stay-at-home order, many people are still taking precautions. We'd like to remind voters that the majority of our services are able to be completed online. You can register to vote, request a Vote by Mail ballot, update your voter information, find election dates, and more, all from the comfort of home!
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Signature Update Reminder
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Your signature is used to verify your identity on petitions and Vote by Mail ballots. Yes, we look at each and every signature! With more people choosing to Vote by Mail, we want to take a moment to remind you of the importance of updating your signature.
There are many factors that may affect your signature- age, illness, or injury just to name a few. Prepare and
#PROTECT2020
by updating your signature today!
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Presidential Preference Primary
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COVID-19 hit Florida just before Election Day for the Presidential Preference Primary. It meant a scramble for things like hand sanitizer, gloves, masks, and cleaning supplies, and that some of our Election Workers sat out Election Day to protect their health. Those who did work were carefully watched as they wiped down surfaces to ensure the safety of themselves and Clay County voters. It meant a surge in our Vote by Mail ballots and reassuring voters that we would conduct a secure election in the safest environment possible.
Despite these challenges, our team was able to rise to the occasion, and be successful. Our turnout was just under 25% with Vote by Mail the most popular option. Election Day was a very close second with 11,295 voters casting a ballot in person.
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Read on to learn more about the 3 Ways to Vote in the upcoming
Primary Election
on
August 18, 2020
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Coronavirus has affected the way that many industries conduct business, now and possibly forever. As for elections, while our office was temporarily closed to the public, we continued to serve voters online and over the phone. We've had to find creative solutions to source materials- like Black Creek Distillery, who is now making hand sanitizer. We're revising our Election Worker procedures to include sanitizing equipment and spreading the message about Voting by Mail.
The Florida Supervisors of Elections (FSE) has also called on Governor DeSantis
to
increase early voting from 15 days to 22 days for the Primary and General Elections, and expand the time Elections Offices can mail out ballots to voters.
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The FSE also asked the Governor to authorize the use of vote centers, modifying the requirement
of one polling place for each precinct.
In the meantime, we're taking every precaution possible to keep our staff and our voters safe.
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Voting by Mail has become a popular option, not only because of convenience, but because it gives voters time to research the ballot ahead of the election. Now, with COVID-19, its popularity is soaring.
A Vote by Mail ballot is the best insurance policy during this time of uncertainty. If there's any reason you're not able to vote in person, then you have an alternative. Ordering a mail ballot doesn't mean you have to vote it. If you prefer, you can still vote at the polls, just surrender your VBM ballot there.
Click
here to request your Vote by Mail ballot.
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Early Vote Dates, Times, Locations
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August 6 - August 15
8 AM through 6 PM
The majority of voters cast their ballot before Election Day. Early Vote has become increasingly popular for people constantly on the go! During the Early Vote period, August 6-15, you can vote at ANY of our Early Vote locations- including our newest location, the
Thrasher-Horne Center!
Before work, after school, on the way to the store or the park, swing by the location closest to you and let your voice be heard!
Click here to see all of our Early Vote locations.
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There are still many voters who vote on Election Day! When voting on Election Day, you MUST vote in your assigned precinct.
Not sure where that is?
Click here to find where you vote.
Election Day is August 18
Polls are open from 7 AM till 7 PM
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The PPP is over, we're gathering steam for the August 18 Primary Election and we're looking for Election Workers
Have you ever been curious about elections?
Do you want to find a way to serve your community?
Consider becoming an Election Worker! Be a part of the democratic process, help your neighbors, and earn money while doing it!
Visit
ClayElections.gov/Election-Workers-Volunteers and find out more information!
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100 Years of Women Voting
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On August 18, 1920, the 19th Amendment was ratified. Women were finally able to vote! To celebrate the centennial anniversary, we'll be showcasing the elected women of Clay County, past and present, throughout the year.
Clay Today will run a monthly article through August, detailing the fight for women's rights and celebrating 100 years of the 19th Amendment. Check it out if you get the chance!
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Happy Birthday!
Holly.............. 4/14
Thunder......... 5/9
Leslie............. 6/11
Jim................. 6/19
Rick................ 6/26
Anthony.......... 6/29
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Happy Anniversary!
Leslie........... 4/9*
Anthony........ 4/23
Heather......... 6/26
*Denotes full time employment
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Kayla O'Neal joined the Elections Office at the beginning of this year and jumped right in with both feet- helping us prepare for the PPP.
Kayla is originally from Alabama, but moved to Clay County in 2017. She comes from a background in banking, but decided she wanted a change. Kayla's role as Administrative Coordinator encompasses a variety of tasks, which she really enjoys.
Kayla has always known the importance of elections. But, now as an employee of the Elections Office, and especially after the PPP, she's learned how rewarding it is to have your voice heard.
Kayla's professionalism and friendliness have quickly made her a vital part of our team. She never hesitates to help anyone out and goes above and beyond to assist our voters.
In her spare time, Kayla likes spending time with her family and her dogs. When she's not working, you can find her reading and going to the beach.
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In 2008, Marti Chase was encouraged by a friend to be an Election Worker. She enjoyed it so much, she continued through 2012, when she was offered a position at the Election Office. Thank goodness, because Marti is a huge reason for our success!
As part of the Elections Services team, her organizational skills are constantly on display! She attained her Master Florida Certified Election Professional (MFCEP) certification in 2018. MFCEP is a program of 3 course levels and requires 3 years to complete. It's just a small example of the dedication she has to elections.
Marti's favorite thing about working at the Election Office is the diversity and the camaraderie. She is proud to be part of a team that strives to make the election process the best it can be. Great care is taken to ensure each and every vote counts.
Marti is known around the office for her endless energy- and the delicious desserts she makes! She's also been showing off pictures of her new granddaughter, Josie!
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