Richland County Government assists local election officials

Richland County Government is assisting local election officials with a voter information effort to alleviate confusion about casting a ballot in the November election, the County Administrator announced this week.

The announcement comes after the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling to uphold South Carolina election law requiring voters who mail in their absentee ballots to have a witness signature.

“Voting is a vital part of the democratic process, and Richland County is committed to helping the office responsible for the process provide residents the information they need to exercise their right to vote,” County Administrator Leonardo Brown said.

Because of public health concerns stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, several measures have been implemented to ensure residents can vote safely by mail, in-person absentee and at the polls on Nov. 3. Richland County Government is working with the Office of Voter Registration and Elections to distribute details about voting, polling sites and more.

While Richland County Government has no role in the duties, functions, responsibilities or operations of the Board of Voter Registration and Elections for Richland County, the County Administrator said it is important that various levels of government work together to benefit the public.

The County provides state-required funding, office space and other needed support to the elections office. Brown said support extends to assisting the office with public outreach, especially during what is expected to be an election with high voter turnout. As an example, the County continues to post information on its social media platforms on behalf of the elections office.

“The elections office serves the same people the County government serves – Richland County residents,” Brown said. “Therefore, it’s imperative we help the office be successful with this most important undertaking.”