Your Voice Matters. Make Plans to Vote Safely!

RALEIGH, MS - The 2020 election cycle is well underway and voters need to make plans to vote safely, and securely. The goal of the Smith County Election Commission and Circuit Clerk Anthony Grayson is to conduct a safe and fair election.

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted several changes to state election laws. Please review the following information to ensure you are well aware of current procedures and guidelines regarding the 2020 General Election.

• The absentee voting exception for those with a temporary or permanent physical disability, which is an eligible excuse for mail-in absentee voting, now includes, but is not limited to, those who are under a physician-imposed quarantine, or those who are caring for a dependent who is under a physician-imposed quarantine, due to COVID-19. 
• Mail-in absentee ballots may be received up to five (5) business days after the election IF the envelope is postmarked on or before the date of the election. 
• Absentee ballots will now be the final vote, which means those who vote absentee may not appear on Election Day and cast a regular ballot.
• Smith County is working closely with the Mississippi Secretary of State's office to ensure in-person voting on Election Day is as safe as possible. Each poll manager will be equipped with masks, gloves, and face shields, while hand sanitizer and single-use pens and/or styluses will be available for all voters. Additionally, a limited number of masks will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis for voters who do not have their own.

Absentee ballots are available by request, and should be requested as early as possible to ensure your vote is returned in time for counting. Due to COVID-19, the state expects to see a uptick in mailed ballots, and the Postal Service advises everyone to allow ample time for your ballot to reach the Circuit Clerk's office.

If you need an absentee ballot, you may contact the Circuit Clerk's office at 601-782-4751. 

• For a list of FAQ regarding the election and COVID-19, click here.
• For information about safety at the polls, click here.
• For a complete step-by-step guide to voting by mail in Mississippi, click here.

This year brings several ballot initiatives, and we encourage all voters to read over the sample ballot, understand the initiatives, and familiarize yourself with the language BEFORE Election Day. You can view a sample ballot below.

We want every voter to have ample opportunity to participate in the democratic process that makes our nation so special. If you have any questions or concerns about voting this year, please reach out to the Circuit Clerk's office so we can assist you. You can contact the Circuit Clerk's office at 601-782-4751 or by email at acraft@co.smith.ms.us