MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The November election is 71 days away. And early voting begins in just over seven weeks on October 14. Those dates will be here before we know it. But some say there is still enough time to make major changes to accommodate a massive turnout for the presidential election.
That raised an interesting debate over the weekend on Facebook about using FedEx Forum as an early voting site. Among those pushing the idea is City Court Judge Jayne Chandler, who argues the arena can handle a large crowd with adequate social distancing.
When I weighed in saying the idea sounds good, Chandler urged me, as a journalist, to investigate further. So I did, and it appears FedExForum is a no go. And here’s why.
In order to serve as an early voting site, the arena would need to have secure internet lines specially installed for early voting machines. The internet connections now at the arena are public lines. And there is not enough time to get new lines installed. It’s also highly unlikely that the forum can be used on Election Day as a supersite for voting. Supersites are governed by state law, and can only be employed in case of a natural disaster or health hazard occurring within 10 days of Election Day.
So let’s stay focused on reality, by protecting absentee voting and turning out safely in person. And that’s my point of view.
