How Mississippi Voters Are Preparing for a High-Stakes Election Day
As Mississippi voters gear up for the midterms, the state is grappling with a mix of optimism and logistical hurdles. With Mississippi Move’s “Roll to the Polls” initiative operating in 41 counties, the state is testing its capacity to ensure every eligible voter can cast a ballot—despite lingering challenges.
“It is federal and state law that a voter who cannot physically access the polling location either needs to be have access to an accessible entrance,” said Lily Moens, policy director for Mississippi Votes. “So, that could be a ramp, or if there's no ramp at the polling location, there needs to be curbside voting.” The emphasis on accessibility follows the state's ongoing response to the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down parts of the Voting Rights Act.
The Hidden Costs of Accessibility
Accessibility is a legal requirement. Moens highlighted that voters who cannot physically access the polling location need to have access to an accessible entrance. “So, that could be a ramp, or if there’s no ramp at the polling location, there needs to be curbside voting,” she explained.
For many, transportation remains a role in being able to go vote. In counties where transportation is needed, organizations like Mississippi Move are stepping in. The group, which has operated for 15 years, is mobilizing a large number of volunteers this election cycle—some traveling from as far as California and Washington State. “We’ll take your information, you leave your name, your address, what time you’d like to be picked up,” said Sabir Abdul-Haqq, co-director of engagement for Mississippi Move. “We’ll be contacting you and we’ll have a driver sit your way — almost like Uber.”
But even with such efforts, the scale of the task is daunting. Greene County Circuit Clerk Cecelia Bounds noted that absentee voting data suggests people should be prepared to wait on Election Day. “If absentee voting is any indication what our turnout is going to be on Tuesday, pack your patience,” she said. “There may be some lines.” Bounds also reminded voters to bring their photo I.D. “In Mississippi, everybody has to show photo I.D. be to vote, period — absentee or at the polls,” she said. “The other thing is wearing campaign paraphernalia; maybe, T-shirts that have their candidates or buttons or maybe hats.” “We have to keep a hundred and fifty foot from the door to the polling place that you’re not allowed to have that kind of material out there.”
What’s at Stake for Mississippi Voters
The enthusiasm for the midterms has also bled over to voters. “We’ve got volunteers that are flying over from California and Washington State that are saying, ‘We wanted to support in the South and we figure that Mississippi would be a great spot,’” Abdul-Haqq said.
The breakdown of the Voting Rights Act has left parts of the South with changes in redistricting. “That enthusiasm, especially with voter turnout, may be partially fueled by redistricting efforts, particularly in the South, following the Supreme Court’s breakdown of parts of the Voting Rights Act,” as noted in reports on the election.
The Road Ahead: What Voters Need to Know
As Election Day approaches, the key message is clear: preparation is paramount. Voters are encouraged to be prepared for ballot shortages or other technical difficulties. If you can wait, you should, but if you can’t, you are encouraged to try to come back later.
For those facing obstacles, the Mississippi Votes election protection hotline (833-678-4321) and the Secretary of State’s Elections Division (1-800-829-6786 or ElectionsAnswers@sos.ms.gov) are available. You can find more information online at YallVote.ms.
Ultimately, the midterms in Mississippi will test the resilience of its voters. With a mix of grassroots efforts and initiatives, the goal is to ensure that voters can access the polls. As Abdul-Haqq noted, this year marks Mississippi Move’s 15th year of “Roll to the Polls” and it’s also the most volunteers they’ve ever had.
