Secretary of State Simon: Minnesota should prepare for ‘a different kind of election’ amid COVID-19

With the COVID-19 pandemic and a major upcoming election, Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon said Minnesotans should prepare for "a different kind of election."

"The current public health crisis has been a serious test for all Minnesotans. It has also been a test for our democracy," Simon said in a statement. "I’ve heard from many Minnesotans who wonder how, or even if, we will vote in this high-stakes election year. My answer is clear: The 2020 statewide elections should go on as scheduled."

Election alternatives Simon has been looking to include statewide include mail ballots and expanding absentee voting.

The expansion of absentee voting could include reducing the number of polling places, moving polling places to a central location and moving polling places from vulnerable locations.

"Whatever option we use, we’ll do this thoughtfully and carefully," Simon said. "No one should have to choose between their health and their right to vote."


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