We are learning how to continue living during the COVID-19 pandemic – and that includes one of the activities that defines us as Americans: voting. We all accept some level of risk of coming into contact with COVID-19 anytime we leave our homes.

Voting Options & Risk Levels

There are different types of voting options available and each carry a different type of risk:

• Voting by absentee ballot is the lowest risk as it nearly eliminates the number of people you are in contact with
• Early voting at a location identified by the County Auditor limits the number of people you come in contact with since you are allowed to choose when you vote, including choosing non-peak times
• Day of Voting at your designated polling place has additional risks because your ability to social distance is limited and you cannot control the size of crowds

Consider which type of voting is best for you, your family, and your community. Make sure that any health concerns you may have are included in the decision you make.

Voting in Person - Preventing the Spread of COVID-19

Should you choose either in-person voting option, take steps to protect yourself and others. This is also true for any members of our community that will be volunteering their time as poll workers at polling locations. Recognize that you will very likely be in close contact with individuals at your polling place (closer than 6 feet for longer than 15 minutes). We ask that you do your part and consider COVID-19 safety while you’re doing your part as an American citizen:

• Make sure that you wear a mask — when you are in line, when talking to others/poll workers, and when voting).
• As much as possible, keep 6 feet of distance between yourself and others.
• Bring hand sanitizer and use it
• Please stay home if you think there's any chance you're sick. Because of the close distance you may have to others, if you are possibly sick with COVID-19, there is a good chance you would be exposing others to the virus in this type of a situation.

Holding a presidential election during a pandemic is no small feat; but it is nonetheless important. We know that safety during this type of an event will require each of us to do our part as well as the careful planning of our Scott County Auditor's Office.  To learn more about voting in Scott County, visit: https://www.scottcountyiowa.gov/auditor.