Good turnout for in-person voting in Clark County

CLARK CO., Ky. (WKYT) - Even though a lot of people voted by mail here in Clark County, there were still quite a few people out Tuesday to cast their votes in person.

County Clerk Michelle Turner says when doors opened there was already a long line.

“At 6:00 we had a very good turnout,” Turner said. “Probably had 75 to 80 standing in line, and now, it’s been trickling in as we speak.”

“I don’t know if it’s because everybody is being quarantined or if it’s because there’s nothing else to do or this is something different and they just want to try it,” she says.

Turner says, overall, the day ran smoothly.

Members of the National Guard helped voters as they walked inside the only polling place that’s open: Robert Campbell Junior High School.

We talked to voters about why they chose vote in-person instead of by mail.

“It’s tradition,” Jason Neal said. “It’s what we’re supposed to do. It was just important for me to show up and be here.”

“I’m a physician,” Dr. Beatrice Newel said. “I forgot to request my absentee ballot and I have to vote.”

“I don’t have very much confidence in voting by mail,” Jean Bankes said. “I’d rather do it in person.”

One common theme among all voters: all agreed it’s apart of their civic duty.

“I feel it’s my responsibility if I’m going to have a say in our democracy,” said Neal.

“I want to stand for fairness. I want that always. But I want it particularly for my grandchildren,” said Dr. Newel.

To keep voters safe, Turner says all poll workers are wearing masks.

Masks were made available to voters if they chose to wear one. After using a pen to fill out the ballot, voters have the option to keep it or throw it away. Workers are also sanitizing equipment between each use.

About 7,000 absentee ballots went out in Clark County. The county clerk says 1,000 of those have come in so far.

Clark County is also choosing to hold off reading vote totals until June 30.

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