Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 27, 2022

CONTACT: press@securedemocracyusa.org

Secure Democracy: New Mail Voting Guidance Strengthens Access for West Virginia Voters

Nonpartisan Voter Access Group Applauds
Secretary of State Mac Warner

CHARLESTON, WV - On Tuesday, Secretary of State Mac Warner issued guidance on mail voting rules for the 2022 primary election on May 10. For election administrators and West Virginia voters, the new rules guarantee that absentee voting methods remain available to those impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Following the news, Secure Democracy USA Advocacy Director Diego Echeverri issued the following statement:

"The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted how many West Virginians live, work and go to school. Thanks to Secretary of State Mac Warner, it won't have to disrupt the way West Virginians vote and make their voices heard. New guidance from Secretary Warner offers a roadmap for election administrators across the state as they prepare for this year's contests—for West Virginia voters, it also brings peace of mind in knowing options are available for those impacted by the pandemic.

"Building on the successful policies established by Secretary Warner, state lawmakers now have the opportunity to embrace policies that expand access to the ballot box for all voters—especially those in rural areas. Secure Democracy’s recent research shows West Virginia rural voters depend on options like vote by mail and early voting to make their voices heard. With Secretary Warner’s clear pro-voter guidance, now is the time for the legislature to take action to strengthen voter access and continue to build trust in West Virginia’s elections.” 

Earlier this month, Secure Democracy released a new research report documenting how West Virginia rural voters voted in the 2020 election and rely on alternative voting methods. The report also offers recommendations for the legislature to increase voter access and confidence in elections. The press release announcing the report is here and the report is available here.

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Secure Democracy USA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that works to build confidence in our elections and improve voter access across the United States. We educate policymakers and the public about what it takes to safeguard our voting systems. We use sophisticated survey and messaging research to inform our strategy and we collaborate with state leaders, election administrators, policy  experts, and allies to ensure that all eligible citizens have the freedom to vote how they choose.