Fulton Elections Director Addresses Questions, Concerns About Voting During Pandemic

On Wednesday’s special edition of “Closer Look,” guests shared their recommendations for improving the process for the November presidential election.

Chris Ferguson / WABE

Early voting during the COVID-19 pandemic is stirring up a lot of questions and concerns.

On Monday, local voters began casting their ballots for the June primary at polling locations throughout the Atlanta metro area.

But Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections Director Richard Barron says there were some challenges with the rollout.

“We had lines yesterday at our South Annex, C.T. Martin and Alpharetta facilities,” Barron said.

On Tuesday’s edition of “Closer Look,” Barron told host Rose Scott that the Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections is working to reduce long lines by opening the polling facilities earlier.

During the conversation, Barron also stressed that the health and safety of poll workers and voters are his top concerns.

“What I want to do is balance the public health with the processing of voters as safely as possible,” said Barron.

Out of precaution, poll workers are wearing masks and gloves and are passing out hand sanitizer.

Barron says people waiting in lines to vote are required to stand 6 feet apart and are encouraged to wear a mask.

Early voting goes until June 5. The primary is June 9.

Guest:

  • Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections Director Richard Barron

To listen to the full conversation, please click the audio player above