MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Early voting in Tennessee ends on Thursday.
Many residents of Shelby County have already cast their ballots, but some remain cautious about election security. On Monday, three separate fires in Oregon and Washington state destroyed hundreds of ballots, and officials have now confirmed that those incidents are linked.
Many people have differing views about election integrity and security compared to their feelings about safety when heading to the polls. They expressed that polling places could ramp up security and camera presence to protect voters. At the same time, they are grappling with their concerns about ballot security.
As the days wind down and the number of ballots increases, election security, and safety are at the forefront of many people's minds—especially after several elected officials recently raised concerns about their constituents having issues voting. Local officials say this shouldn't be problematic.
"We have a very, very strong tradition of election security in Tennessee," said Linda Phillips, the Shelby County Election Administrator. "We've been nominated twice as the most secure election state in the country."
Ian Randolph with Shelby County Voter Alliance, continued, "We also helped the Shelby County Election Commission with the rollout of the new machines. They are air-gapped, so I am confident in the new machines."
While some trust the election machines' integrity, others doubts.
"I also don't trust that all the voting machines are going to work properly," said Shelby County voter Herschel Freeman.
But everyone agrees that more security should be implemented for those voting in person.
"It would be nice to have some law enforcement present so people would not intrude on others' rights."
Phillips issued a statement where she stated that the election commission building is undergoing extensive renovations to enhance its security, and there are layers of security in place, including cameras, locks, alarm systems, and equipment trackers to keep ballots secure.