Memphis Voters Prepare for Critical Election Day
As the countdown to election day begins, the residents of Memphis are gearing up to make their voices heard on several important local issues. While the nation is focused on presidential candidates, Memphis voters will find themselves faced with six critical referendum questions that address everything from election procedures to gun safety measures.
Take a Moment to Prepare
Election officials are urging voters to do their homework before heading to the polls. With the length of these ballot questions exceeding what many might be accustomed to, they advise everyone to familiarize themselves with the specifics ahead of time. Linda Phillips, the Shelby County Election Commission Administrator, noted on the first day of early voting, “It’s taking about 60 seconds longer than we had estimated, so per voter, that adds up. Make sure you’ve read the referendum if you live in the City of Memphis before you get here.”
An Overview of the Referendums
The six questions that Memphis voters will encounter on their ballots cover a variety of topics. Each voter will choose to vote “For The Amendment” or “Against The Amendment,” with the implications clearly defined for each option. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
1. Run-Off Elections for Mayor (Referendum 1)
This question asks whether Memphis should enact a run-off election for Mayor, applicable only if no candidate garners over 50% of the votes. Last year, Mayor Paul Young was elected with just 27.6% of the vote in a heavily crowded race with 17 candidates. A vote “For The Amendment” indicates support for a run-off between the top two candidates, while a vote “Against The Amendment” prefers to maintain the status quo.
2. City Council Salary Determination (Referendum 2)
Referendum 2 poses the question of whether the Memphis City Council should set its own salaries alongside those of the Mayor and other chief officers. By voting “For The Amendment,” you express your desire for the Council to handle the setting of these salaries. A vote “Against The Amendment” would keep the current salary-setting structure unchanged.
3. Residency Requirements for Officials (Referendum 3)
This referendum seeks to clarify residency requirements for the Mayor and City Council members. Following debates surrounding mayoral candidates’ qualifications, this question is crucial. By voting “For The Amendment,” you support establishing requirements such as a two-year residency and being at least 18 years old. If you vote “Against The Amendment,” you would prefer to eliminate these additional requirements.
4. Permitless Carry Ban (Referendum 4)
The next three questions involve potential gun safety measures, and they have sparked plenty of discussions among state leaders. The first question challenges whether Memphis should ban carrying a gun without a permit. Voting “For The Amendment” indicates your support for this ban, while voting “Against The Amendment” allows current state laws on permitless carry to apply.
5. Assault Weapon Ban (Referendum 5)
The second gun-related question proposes a ban on the sale of assault weapons within the city, except to law enforcement or approved agencies. Those already owning an assault weapon and having a valid permit would not be affected. Voting “For The Amendment” would signify your backing for this restriction, while a vote “Against The Amendment” would maintain the status quo.
6. Extreme-Risk Protection Orders (Referendum 6)
Finally, the last question on the ballot asks whether courts should have the authority to remove firearms from individuals deemed a significant danger to themselves or others. A vote “For The Amendment” would support implementing this protective measure, while voting “Against The Amendment” shows opposition to such an action.
Wrap-Up
With numerous important decisions awaiting their attention, Memphis voters must be prepared for Tuesday’s election. As you think about how you’ll cast your vote, remember that each referendum will influence not just local policies but the broader community as well. Make sure to check out the sample ballot and think carefully about what these questions mean for the future of Memphis.
