Applications now accepted in clerk’s office
Escambia County (Ala.) Circuit Clerk John Robert Fountain said he expects to get the absentee ballots for the March 3 primary elections by Jan. 8, and said people seeking an absentee ballot can fill out an application now.
Fountain said as of Jan. 1, he will accept applications for absentee ballots. He said he will hold those early applications until he receives the ballots from the secretary of state's office and then mail them out.
“As soon as I get the ballots, I will put them in the mail,” Fountain said.
Persons picking up absentee ballots at the circuit clerk's office will need to show a photo ID. Those receiving absentee ballots through the mail will be required to enclose a photo ID when they return the ballot.
Thursday, Feb. 27, is the last day voters can apply for a regular absentee ballot for the primary elections. March 2 is the last day voters can return the absentee ballot in person to the clerk's office.
Fountain noted no one, not even a family member, can return someone else's absentee ballot to his office.
Absentee ballots mailed to the clerk's office must be postmarked by March 2 and must be received at the clerk's office by noon on March 3.
March 26 is the last day to apply for an absentee ballot for the primary runoffs.
Fountain also noted people seeking an absentee ballot, must specify on the application whether they want a Republican or Democrat ballot. He also said if someone has moved and has not updated their address they need to contact the board of registrars.
Applications for absentee ballots may be obtained at the clerk's office inside the Escambia County Courthouse in Brewton or requested through the mail at 314 Belleville Ave., Suite 215, Brewton, Ala. 36426. Applications can also be downloaded from the secretary of state's website at http://www.alabamavotes.gov.
Anyone with questions about absentee ballots can contact Fountain at 251-867-0225, extension 225.
