[PORTLAND, ME] – The League of Women Voters of Maine (LWVME) reported that through 8:00 PM on Election Day, polling in the Senate District 14 special election has successfully concluded.
Executive Director Anna Kellar said, “With today’s special election in Senate District 14, we are glad Maine has continued its tradition of well-run, accessible, and safe elections.”
Building on LWVME’s successful election observation program for the November 2020 election, volunteer election observers provided real time reports from all 11 polling places in the district. Observers monitored the election process throughout the day and filed reports, including information on the time voters waited in line to cast their ballots, COVID precautions, and whether any irregularities were observed at the polls. Updates were also posted throughout the day on Twitter.
Few issues were observed. No significant lines were reported at any polling places, and there were no reports of significant disruptions for voters casting their ballots. As in November, observers noted rare instances of inconsistent mask use by staff or a lack of plexiglass barriers. Generally, observers had high praise for the professionalism and welcoming nature of the election staff across Senate District 14.
“We are grateful that Maine voters continue to be able to participate in our democracy during this challenging time,” Kellar added. “While we must remain vigilant to ensure that COVID protocols are followed and that voters can use the full range of options to vote, we are confident that this election allowed for a safe and accessible voting experience.”
The League of Women Voters of Maine will continue gathering reports from polling locations through the completion of the election. These reports will help LWVME continue to assess the voting experience during the COVID pandemic, and inform recommendations the organization makes for future elections. Following its work in the November 2020 election, LWVME issued a post-election report that recommended keeping many of the modifications implemented for that election.