Texas Secretary of State Andrade lauds County Clerk Stanart
For his use of technology to improve early voting mail ballot process: Encourages voters to take advantage of early voting period

Houston, TX – Texas Secretary of State Hope Andrade visited the Harris County election office today where she lauded County Clerk Stan Stanart's use of technology to improve the efficiency of the mail ballot process. On her visit to Houston, Secretary Andrade and Clerk Stanart also took the opportunity to encourage Harris County voters to take advantage of the last week of early voting by personal appearance, as polling locations will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

“This year, the Primary Election Day is the day after a three day weekend,” said Stanart, the Chief Election Officer of the County. “Family time and Elections are both important, so I’m encouraging everyone to vote early and enjoy their Memorial Day weekend with family and friends in honoring those who gave so much for our country.” 

The County Clerk and the Texas Secretary of State teamed up at various events to further promote the benefits of voting early. The Secretary of State serves as Chief Election Officer for Texas, assisting county election officials and ensuring the uniform application and interpretation of election laws throughout Texas (source: www.sos.state.tx.us).

As of Sunday, May 20, in Harris County, 35,277 persons had voted early in-person, 11,580 in the Democratic Primary and 23,697 in the Republican Primary. In addition, 18,970 voters had voted by mail, 6,055 on the Democratic side and 12,915 on the Republican side. Compared to early voting totals in previous even-numbered years’ primary elections, participation in the Republican primary is higher than ever, while turnout on the Democratic side is about average.

Harris County registered voters may vote at any one of the 37 Harris County early voting sites until Friday, May 25. According to Clerk Stanart, “Democracy needs your thoughtful input in selecting the best individual to represent your views.” Harris County voters choosing to participate in the Republican side will find about 53 contests, plus 5 propositions on their individual ballot while Democratic voters will find 51 contests and 3 referendums. Voters may vote in only one of the primaries. The last day qualified voters may submit a ballot by mail request is Tuesday, May 22 (date received, not postmarked).

To find an early voting location and view the early voting schedule please visit www.harrisvotes.com or contact the Harris County Clerk’s Office at 713-755-6965.

Photo: Texas Secretary of State Hope Andrade, Harris County Clerk Stan Stanart and Election Supervisor Jennifer Ballard review a step in mail ballot process.