How the the midterm election is impacted by Hurricane Ian

Tuesday was the last day to register to vote ahead of the midterm elections in November, which were not spared from being impacted by Hurricane Ian.

Like in other Southwest Florida counties, Lee County recommends early voting or vote-by-mail whenever possible.

They also encourage voters to reapply for voter cards as soon as possible if they need new cards or need them sent to new locations.

The process is only expected to take 7-10 business days once the requests are made, but sooner is better for all Ian-related issues.

Lee County is still waiting for Governor DeSantis to approve an executive order that would eliminate precinct voting on the day of elections and instead allow all 12 early voting sites to be used as “Vote Centers.” Voters would be allowed to file their ballot at any of the voting centers between October 24 and November 8.

WINK News asked the Lee County Supervisor of Election’s office about how many polling locations were damaged or impacted by Hurricane Ian. They never gave an estimate but alluded to the fact that it was significant and said they’re still gathering an inventory of the damage.

If your polling place has been impacted and will not be available for Election Day, your local election supervisor will inform you where you will be able to cast your vote.