SACRAMENTO, Calif. — County officials across Northern California are making last-minute preparations ahead of Election Day, anticipating high voter turnout and preparing for potential disruptions.
In Sacramento County, officials expect long lines at polling places on what is traditionally the busiest day of the election season.
Sacramento County spokesman Ken Casparis said residents can still vote by mail or drop their ballots off at any of the 60 ballot drop-box locations throughout the county to avoid wait times at polling places.
Meanwhile, in Solano County, multiple polling places fall within the area projected for a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) Tuesday night.
Officials are closely monitoring forecasts of high winds and low humidity that have prompted concerns over fire risk across Northern California.
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Due to these conditions, PG&E is planning a Public Safety Power Shutoff, potentially impacting 20,000 customers, including 5,000 in Solano County and three polling locations there.
However, the power shutoff is expected to start around 9 p.m. on Tuesday — an hour after polls close.
PG&E spokesperson Paul Moreno assured voters and officials that backup generators would be available at any polling locations affected by the shutoff.
“We are ready to provide backup generators at any polling location that may need it, even if they don’t use it,” Moreno said.
PG&E confirmed that no ballot tabulation centers are within the scope of the planned shutoff.
Security concerns are also a priority for officials in Sacramento and surrounding areas, with memories still fresh of heightened tensions following the 2020 presidential election.
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In 2020, Sacramento witnessed protests from groups alleging election fraud, with demonstrators gathering at the State Capitol.
The California Highway Patrol has prepared officers for potential election-related unrest, and Placer County has announced increased patrols near vote centers on Election Day.
“This is something we do every year to ensure the safety of voters and poll workers,” said Elise Soviar, communications manager for the Placer County Sheriff’s Office.
As residents prepare to cast their ballots, county officials emphasized their commitment to maintaining a safe, accessible, and efficient election process.
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