BISMARCK, ND - State and county election officials are closely monitoring forecasted severe weather conditions expected to impact North Dakota during voting at polling locations across the state later today and into the evening.
Voting in all locations will proceed as scheduled. Election officials are working with emergency management partners and polling place staff to ensure voters can safely cast their ballots and that election operations continue without interruption.
"We encourage voters to plan ahead and seek to vote prior to severe weather impacting their area, if possible,” said Secretary of State Michael Howe. "Our priority is ensuring every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast a ballot while maintaining the safety of voters, election workers, and the public. We encourage businesses to work with employees to allow time to vote to ensure everyone can exercise their right to vote safely."
What Voters Should Know
- Polling locations will remain open. Check www.vote.nd.gov for polling location changes.
- Power outages will not affect your ability to vote because North Dakota uses paper ballots.
- Voters should monitor local weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling to vote and allow additional travel time due to high winds or other hazardous conditions.
“Election officials remain committed to conducting a secure, accurate, and accessible election despite potential weather-related challenges,” says Howe. “The safety for our citizens and the thousands of election workers who make today possible is first and foremost in our minds.”