By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Political races are heating up around Kansas. Unlike the primaries held back in August, the general election on Nov. 8 is for all the marbles. Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler said her office will once again offer early voting in the weeks leading up to Election Day.
"Early voting, hopefully, we can start Oct. 19," she said. "That's the soonest we can start, by law. Hopefully, we'll have all of our media here, tested and ready to go. We just want people to call the office before they come up and make sure we're starting before they make the trip."
Once early voting is up and running, the clerk's office will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The office will also be open on Saturday, Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Polling places on Election Day will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. A valid photo ID is required to vote.
Up for grabs in the general election are several key statewide races. Incumbent Laura Kelly faces off against Derek Schmidt in the governor's race, while Kris Kobach and Chris Mann square off in the race for attorney general.
"There are two constitutional amendment questions," Schmeidler said. "We aren't allowed to talk about them or explain them, so people need to check that out before they come."
The first constitutional amendment pertains to giving the state legislature more oversight powers against the executive branch. A "yes" vote would allow the legislature to establish procedures or to revoke or suspend rules or regulations adopted by the state executive branch. A "no" vote would allow the executive branch to continue adopting rules and regulations that have the force of law without any opportunity for the legislature to directly revoke or suspend such rules and regulations.
The second constitutional amendment would preserve the right of citizens to continue electing a county sheriff. A "yes" vote would preserve the right to elect a sheriff in counties where a sheriff was elected as of Jan. 11, 2022. A "no" vote would make no changes to the constitution and would retain current law concerning the election of a sheriff.
CLICK HERE, then enter your name and date of birth to view your polling location and a sample copy of your ballot. Contact the clerk's office prior to early voting by calling (620) 793-1835.