WASHINGTON CO. UNAFFECTED BY PROCLAMATION LIMITING COUNTIES TO ONE MAIL-IN BALLOT DROP-OFF
Governor Greg Abbott’s proclamation Thursday limiting counties to one drop-off site for mail-in ballots will not affect Washington County.
County Clerk Beth Rothermel said the county only has one designated drop-off location, which can be found inside the county clerk’s office, suite 102 on the first floor of the Washington County Courthouse. She said a ballot box is ready for voters to deposit their ballots.
Rothermel said, as Washington County does not have satellite clerk’s offices, Abbott’s announcement—which took effect today (Friday)—has a much greater impact on larger counties. That includes places like Harris County, which was forced to close 11 absentee ballot drop-off locations as a result of the decision.
Abbott’s proclamation also requires early voting clerks to allow poll watchers to observe any activity related to the in-person delivery of absentee ballots at the drop-off location.
Abbott said the measure is intended to strengthen ballot security protocols, but his actions have drawn condemnation from critics who say this decision is an act of voter suppression.
Rothermel reminded voters that they must be the ones to drop off their by-mail ballot, as required by state law, and they must also bring their ID to present to election officials.
Monday is the last day to register to vote, while October 23rd is the last day to request a mail-in ballot.