Some States Go to Polls Under Curfew: Campaign Update

(Bloomberg) -- Curfews aiming to tamp down violent protests in cities around the country have brought new strain to primary elections scheduled for Tuesday already burdened by the coronavirus crisis.

The District of Columbia, Indiana, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and South Dakota are all holding elections Tuesday and while in-person voting is available, they are strongly encouraging voters to submit their ballots by mail or vote early.

In Washington, Mayor Muriel Bowser has announced a 7 p.m. curfew for Monday and Tuesday, although polls are meant to stay open on Tuesday until 8 p.m. She has not issued guidance for the Board of Elections on how to deal with the conflict.

“Regarding protests, normal safety measures will be in place,” said Rachel Coll, public information officer for the D.C. Board of Elections. “Poll workers are trained on how to respond to emergencies and will follow instructions accordingly.”

It was unclear what impact curfews would have on voting in other cities as well. In Philadelphia, a 6 p.m. Curfew has been announced for Monday. A Tuesday curfew has not yet been announced but polls are meant to stay open until 8 p.m.

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