Kay Ivey announced in a joint press conference with Attorney General Steve Marshall and Secretary of State John Merrill that she has postponed the March 31 primary run-off election to July 14.
“Exercising my extraordinary powers under the Emergency Management Act, I am setting Alabama’s Primary Runoff Election for July 14, 2020,” said Governor Kay Ivey. “The ability to hold free and fair elections is an inherent right as citizens of the United States and the great state of Alabama, but the safety and wellbeing of Alabama citizens is paramount.”
The announcement comes the day after Steve Marshall released an emergency opinion stating that Kay Ivey, as Governor, could move the date of the Primary Run-off following her emergency declaration.
Secretary of State John Merrill, who is Alabama’s chief elections official, said in a press release:
“In postponing the March 31 Runoff Election to July 14, we are continuing Alabama’s practice of providing free and fair elections that do not compromise the safety and health of our voters, poll workers, and anyone else who may be involved with the elections process.”
“This new date will allow for the electoral process to continue in a normal manner. This delay will allow all local election officials the time to assess and evaluate the changes that must be made to ensure the Runoff Election is administered according to plan.”
Alabama joins several other states in postponing elections as a result of coronavirus’ spread, including Georgia, Kentucky, and Louisiana.
To download and view the Governor’s announcement, click here.
To download and view the Secretary of State and Attorney General portion of the announcement, click here.
