ANSON COUNTY, N.C. — The North Carolina State Board of Elections is addressing complaints regarding improper voter assistance during early voting in Anson County.
State officials reported that eight voters needed assistance on the first day of early voting last week.
Under federal law, voters who are disabled or require help at polling places must be the ones to request assistance.
State officials determined that individuals at polling locations were proactively offering assistance to voters without being asked.
Jason Tyson, an official with the State Board of Elections, confirmed that state authorities intervened to resolve the issue.
“We’re definitely on it and we worked to resolve it,” Tyson said, noting “what was happening is you had some folks at the polls who were at the polls who were just offering outright.”
In response to the complaints, the state board issued updated guidance to local election officials outlining proper procedures for voter aid.
Tyson clarified that while voters are permitted to select an individual of their choice to assist them, candidates face specific restrictions inside polling places.
“You can choose anyone. It can be a candidate, but the candidate can’t use the opportunity to help you to do electioneering inside the polling location,” Tyson said. “That’s where you get conflict right.”
Tim Watkins, a candidate for Anson County sheriff, stated that he assisted four voters last week.
Watkins said he changed his shirt before providing help to ensure he did not create a conflict of interest or conduct electioneering inside the polling site.
Voters requiring help may also request assistance directly from election officials working at the precinct.
No fines or penalties have been handed down to any candidates or campaign staff members following the complaints.
The North Carolina State Board of Elections plans to continue working closely with local election officials in Anson County as early voting proceeds.
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