By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
The 2022 election season has officially arrived. Voters may now cast early votes at the Barton County Clerk's office in Great Bend through Monday, Aug. 1 at noon. Voting began as early as July 13 in some counties, but County Clerk Bev Schmeidler said her office received the final equipment it needed Friday.
"That came late Friday so we were able to start first thing (Monday) morning with the early voting," she said. "That will extend to Aug. 1 at noon, is when we have to stop. We will be here July 30, a Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m."
This year's primary ballot figures to be a big draw with several races likely decided in August. Statewide, voters will decide on the constitutional amendment regarding abortion rights in the state. That issue will be decided in the Aug. 2 primary.
The Republican primary will feature several contested races. There are currently four candidates in the Barton County Commission, District 1 race, and two candidates are vying for spots in each of the fourth and fifth districts.
In other races, both Democratic and Republican tickets will feature primary competition with candidates in many races from governor, state attorney general, and U.S. senate, among others.
A photo I.D. is required to vote. Early voting is available at the Barton County Clerk's office at the courthouse in Great Bend from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday through noon on Aug. 1. The office will also be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 30.