Clerk Says Misinformation About Ballot Circulating On Social Media

Crawford County Clerk John Martin sent a notice to voters this week informing them that a social media post regarding election officials is false.

According to Martin, the post is being circulated on Facebook and says that a voter should request a new ballot if an election judge marks a ballot with a letter, checkmark, star or other mark.

Martin points to RSMo. Section 115.433 which says that after a voter’s identification certificate has been initialed, two judges of different political parties or one judge from a major political party and one judge with no political affiliation shall initial the voter’s ballot or ballot card, if using a paper ballot.

Martin says this means that two judges — one Republican and one Democrat — will place their own initials in the top two left boxes on the Crawford County ballot.

Martin said “it is in no way considered as having marks on your ballot other than those allowed by law” and the process is exactly the same as it has been for every election across the last two decades.

Martin encouraged voters to check both sides of the ballot to ensure they have not missed anything.

“If you make a mistake on your ballot, you may take it to the sign-in table and request a new ballot,” Martin said. “A bipartisan team will ‘spoil’ your ballot and issue a new one.”

Martin said at no time will anyone be asked about their party affiliation and that Missouri doesn’t allow straight ticket voting, so they must fill in the bubble for each race/issue they wish to vote on.

Electioneering is not allowed within 25 feet of any polling place entrance and includes, but is not limited to, visible display of hats, shirts, face masks, buttons, stickers, tattoos or other signage for or against any candidate or issue on the ballot.

Martin said it s a Class Four election offense and will be investigated.

“Be patient with the election judges and poll workers, please!” Martin said. “These Crawford County citizens are people just like you, and they will be doing their best to serve the county. That day will be long and stressful, so help keep the lines moving by having your identification ready, moving with purpose and following all directions.”