JACKSON – General Election Day is officially underway for nearly 200 municipalities across Mississippi. So far, calls to our Election Hotline have been steady, with most calls relating to poll observer conduct and campaigning. As a reminder, it is unlawful to campaign for any candidate within 150 feet of any entrance to a polling place unless on private property. Additionally, all poll observers are advised to follow the conduct guidelines listed here on our website. 

 "As I continue to visit precincts across north Mississippi, I'm noticing a less than ideal voter turnout," said Secretary Michael Watson. "Local elections are incredibly impactful to our everyday lives, and I encourage all eligible voters to get out and make your voice heard.
I’m proud of the commitment shown by our team as we'll have poll observers from our office in close to 60 cities today, making sure our election laws are being followed. It’s important for Mississippians to know we’re doing all we can to ensure safe, fair, clean, and secure elections." 
 
 
  

 
Election Issues Reported to the SOS Elections Hotline

Our office has received numerous reports of the following allegations across Mississippi:

• Absentee ballots not available for the full absentee voting period in a municipality;
• An absentee ballot box left unsealed for an undetermined amount of time;
• A Municipal Clerk not providing absentee ballot applications;
• Voters being barred from a polling place for not wearing a mask;
• Violations of election laws

Problems at the polls observed by State observers or otherwise reported to our Elections Hotline will be referred to the proper authorities, including the Attorney General’s Office or appropriate District Attorney’s Office. As a reminder, our office has no enforcement authority.

 
For more information about Municipal General Election Day, please contact your local Municipal Clerk's Office or call our Elections Hotline at 601-576-2550 or 1-800-829-6786.