Nonpartisan Election Observers Noted Zero Mishaps at Polling Locations
[PORTLAND, ME] – The League of Women Voters of Maine (LWVME) reported that through 8:00 PM on Election Day, polling across the state has successfully concluded.
For the second time, LWVME deployed Maine volunteer nonpartisan election observers to provide real time reports from all 11 polling locations in Portland, Ellsworth, Yarmouth, and other towns.
This preliminary data, complete as of 8:15 PM on Election Day, includes information on the rate at which voters are arriving to vote, 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.
Observers monitored the presence of COVID precautions, such as poll workers wearing masks, the use of plexiglass barriers, and social distancing in any wait lines. Observers noted consistent use of COVID standards, with no anomalies detected.
For the first time, Portland residents used multi-winner ranked-choice voting to rank their preferred candidates for the four at-large Charter Commissioners. League observers noted that election workers assisted voters by explaining the process and offered new ballots if the voter incorrectly used ranked-choice voting and spoiled their first ballot.
“Despite strict COVID protocols no longer being mandatory at the state level, local election workers generally followed protocols similar to November, which helped all voters feel safe,” said Anna Kellar, Executive Director of LWVME.
LWVME has worked with a coalition of Maine organizations throughout 2020 and 2021 to ensure that the pandemic does not depress voter turnout, and that election officials make reasonable accommodations to ensure a safe and inclusive process for all voters.
The League of Women Voters of Maine is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. We never support or oppose any political party or candidate.