Election Day Approaches in Memphis: What Voters Need to Know
As we gear up for the upcoming election on **November 5**, Memphis is buzzing with excitement and anticipation. This year’s ballot is packed with a total of 48 races, and that’s not even counting the Memphis referendums that will be placed at the bottom. For those who might be uninformed or overwhelmed by the sheer number of items to decide upon, let’s break down what to expect.
Uncontested Races in Shelby County
One interesting aspect of this election is that among those 48 races, a notable 21 are uncontested. This situation means that a single candidate stands alone on the ballot for their respective position, making them automatic winners when the polls close. While this might not sound thrilling, it does streamline things for both voters and candidates. After all, sometimes it feels good to know that certain offices will continue with familiar faces.
Among those incumbents, we see some familiar names from the Shelby County Delegation making a return. A notable change, however, is in **District 96**, where former Shelby County Democratic Party Chairwoman Gabby Salinas triumphed in a crowded primary this past August. Salinas, currently without opposition from any Republican or independent candidates, will take over the role previously held by Dwayne Thompson, who chose not to seek reelection. This unopposed victory is a good example of how political tides can shift, and folks are curious to see how Salinas will lead in her new position.
Other Legislative Races to Watch
Don’t count out the other legislative races looming on the Shelby County horizon, either. While some races – like those in State House Districts 83 and 97 – have attracted significant attention, several others are flying under the radar. The challengers in these races are often low-key, possibly due to limited campaigning or the way district maps have been drawn to favor one party significantly over the other. This creates a unique scenario where certain races are automatically decided long before voting even begins.
Getting Familiar with Lakeland Elections
Switching gears, let’s talk about Lakeland elections, where things have reached a bit of a conclusion already! In Lakeland, voters choose two candidates from a list for their city commission and school board. This year, each of those races only features two contenders, which means we have a straightforward win for each pair. The new Lakeland commissioners are Jim Atkinson and Derek Johnston, and for the school board, we have Jeremy Clayton Burnett and Michelle Childs. This situation makes it easy for Lakeland residents, as they won’t have to wrestle with overwhelming choices; they’ll just confirm what’s in front of them.
Challenges with Early Voting
As always, election season comes with some hiccups. Some early voters have recently raised concerns about issues with the touch-screen voting machines, adding an extra layer of complexity to an already busy time. Officials are aware and are likely working to address any concerns before election day truly kicks off.
So, as we inch closer to November 5, it’s worth reminding ourselves how important it is to stay informed. From uncontested races to early voting experiences, Memphis residents have a lot to consider. And whether you’re cheering for a candidate or simply want your voice heard, getting involved in the process is an essential part of being a civic-minded citizen. Happy voting season, Memphis!
