MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Election day is less than two weeks away, and there are many issues on the ballot for Shelby County voters.
The six referendums on this ballot are extensive and will require some additional time to review, but they could also have a big impact on Memphis' future.
Three of these referendums involve gun safety and carrying rights. The other three will ask Memphis if city council and mayoral candidates should live in Memphis, if council members should determine their own salary and that of other city officers, and if voters want to enact a runoff election for the mayoral race.
Besides discussing the presidential candidates, the gun referendum portion of this ballot resonated most with some voters.
People are seeking a change because of gun violence across the country and specifically in Memphis, and they now have the opportunity to make it happen.
One voter in Memphis said he just wants to feel safe in his city again. He shared that he'll be voting in favor of the gun safety measures. "It's time because people are hiding from going to the store," said Marlus Stokes. "It's like we have to look over every shoulder, not just ours, but we are looking out for each other, and we shouldn't have to. We do that, but we shouldn't have to do it so much; we should be able to go to the store, go anywhere without having to worry about guns."
Stokes also encourages everyone to do their research before casting their ballot to know what those choices mean and also consider that these referendums will likely add some complexity to your voting process.