What to Expect at the Polls Today in Kentucky
By: Carly Kleiman
What type of identification do I need?
Kentucky does not have a strict voter identification law. According to KRS Statute 117.227, election officers shall confirm the identity of each voter by personal acquaintance or by a document. These identification documents may include:
- Driver’s license
- Social Security card
- Credit card
- Any identification card with picture and signature
- Any United States government-issued identification card
- Any Kentucky state government issued identification card with a picture
- Or, any identification card that has been issued by the county and which has been approved in writing by the State Board of Elections
What if my right to vote is challenged?
Even when a person is registered to vote, the officers of any election may challenge the right to vote for cause. Under KRS 117.245 the challenged voter will be asked to sign a written oath as to his or hers qualification before being allowed to vote by a provisional ballot. The oath is then delivered to the County Attorney to be investigated under a grand jury. A voter can check whether his or hers provisional ballot was counted on the Kentucky the Secretary of State’s website.
Most importantly, if you are at your correct polling place, do not be turned away without at least voting via a provisional ballot.
How close can political canvassers be to the polling place?
Under KRS 117.235 no person shall electioneer within one hundred (100) feet of any entrance to a building in which a voting machine is located. Electioneering can include:
- Displaying of signs,
- The distribution of campaign literature, cards, or handbills,
- The soliciting of signatures to any petition,
- Or, the solicitation of votes for or against any bona fide candidate
There is an exception, however, for displaying campaign signs on private property within the 100 foot zone.
What if I spot a possible election law violation?
Kentucky’s Election Fraud Hotline at 800-328-VOTE (800-328-8683) is open to any person who witnesses election law violations. Kentucky Attorney General Andy Beshear recently assured the public of his commitment to a fair election. “Each voter has the right to cast his or her ballot free of interference and intimidation, and my office is here to protect that right. I encourage anyone with possible information about violations of federal voting rights laws to call the Election Fraud Hotline. Each and every report made will be promptly investigated to ensure a fair and honest election in Kentucky.”