By Brandon Moseley
Alabama Political Reporter
Alabama Secretary of State Beth Chapman released a written statement to announce that Tropical Storm (expected to be a Hurricane within hours) Isaac has led to some South Alabama cities to postpone their municipal elections which were originally scheduled for this Tuesday.
Secretary of State Beth Chapman said, “It is the local election officials who will make the decision of whether to postpone their cities’ elections or not. We stand ready to assist should there be any questions from those local officials.”
Municipal elections are scheduled to occur across the state of Alabama on Tuesday. The polling locations will be open from 7 am to 7 pm except in municipalities affected by Alabama Governor Robert Bentley’s evacuation orders. As of press time Loxley, Gulf Shores, Bayou La Batre, Bay Minette, Fairhope, Prichard, Magnolia Springs, and Orange Beach have all postponed their elections. The tentative election dates are September 11th, the week before the Constitutional Amendment vote. Due to Alabama’s treatment under the Pre-clearance Section of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the setting of new election dates must be approved by the U.S. Justice Department.
Despite the likelihood of severe weather, WSFA is reporting that: Spanish Fort, Citronelle, and Daphne will have their local elections tomorrow as planned. Currently the forecast is for Isaac to make landfall in Louisiana around 7:00 pm. Because of the likelihood of worsening weather conditions it may be wise for voters throughout the southern part of the state to go to the polls early.
All schools have been closed in Mobile and Baldwin Counties for both Tuesday and Wednesday.
In a written statement Alabama Governor Robert Bentley said, “”I am urging everyone to take precautions now, monitor weather warnings, and be prepared for whatever Isaac may bring. By declaring this state of emergency, I am mobilizing the resources our communities need as the storm approaches.”
Alabama EMA director Art Faulkner said, “This state of emergency indicates we are drawing closer to feeling the impact of Isaac. Please make preparations now for the potential impact of strong winds and heavy rains for your area.
Additionally Bentley has ordered low lying parts of Baldwin and Mobile Counties evacuated.
Municipal elections are expected to go on as planned in all other counties. Chapman said for more information about your town’s elections contact your local city clerk, probate judge, or town hall.
