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Soto, Florida Members Push Need to Safeguard State Elections

May 22, 2020

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Darren Soto (FL-09) led a letter to Governor Ron DeSantis supporting requests made by the Supervisors of Elections (SOE) to safeguard Florida's 2020 Primary and General Elections.

In the face of a global pandemic, the right to vote for all Americans may be in jeopardy. Already, states across the country have seen the coronavirus crisis exacerbate dangerous impediments for voters. Without swift action, Floridians will be forced to choose between casting their ballots or protecting themselves from exposure to the coronavirus.

"On April 7, 2020, the Florida SOEs requested guidance regarding the flexibility of voting locations, an increase of early voting days, and other key recommendations to protect voter access and safety for our elections," wrote the Members. "Time is of the essence to respond to these requests as soon as possible so there is enough time for them to be implemented for the 2020 primary election, and to be consistent for the 2020 general election."

Congressman Soto also called for additional protections to ensure safe and orderly polling places.

"We urge you to assist each Supervisor to procure personal protection equipment for their poll workers. Given the likely lack of poll workers due to the COVID-19 pandemic concerns, we strongly encourage you to call upon the Florida National Guard to conduct poll worker duties to fill the gap where necessary. To avoid any unintended voter intimidation, we believe our Florida National Guard would need to be plain-clothed. We also welcome alternative ideas to sufficiently staff our polling places," the Members continued.

Under the CARES Act, Florida was awarded $20 million in federal funds that, if adequately distributed to supervisors, will ensure each county has sufficient resources to meet the increased costs of holding elections during the coronavirus pandemic.

The letter was signed by Reps. Alcee Hastings, Charlie Crist, Lois Frankel, Debbie Mucarsel-Powell and Frederica S. Wilson.

The letter can be read here.

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