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COLUMBUS — Early voting is in full swing in Colorado County as the first wave of polling for the March 5 primaries comes close to an end. However, the newly refurbished Elections Center at 1117 Travis St. had to deal with some unfortunate circumstances on Tuesday, Feb. 20 as a poll worker relieved themselves from their duties after witnesses reported the worker discussing a local resident in a negative light.
Elections Department Administrator Rebecka LaCourse confirmed the event as true before taking swift action. The department did not officially release the name of the worker involved, but the offended party was revealed as local resident and Republican Party Precinct Chairperson Bobbie Gustus.
“All our poll workers undergo extensive training and take an oath of office,” LaCourse said, “Within a span of 15 minutes the allegations were addressed, and one of the workers decided it was in the best interest of the election to leave her post immediately.”
While the situation proved to be a difficult and potentially obstructive one for the elections department, Gustus commended LaCourse and her department for their swift and professional solution.
“Ethical voting practices and election integrity are cornerstones to our Republic,” Gustus said, “Miss LaCourse’s actions re-instill my faith in Colorado County’s insistence that its poll workers understand the value of this job... it starts with our county holding the poll workers accountable for any misstep that could have crippling effects on the citizens’ confidence in the process because of undue influence.”
LaCourse expressed her commitment to leading and problem solving for the department as it tries to maintain its high standards for polling excellence. She encouraged the public to report any complaints to her office immediately as they happen so the department can “handle them in a timely and appropriate manner” according to LaCourse.
Gustus also cited the professionalism usually displayed by the Elections Department and expressed her views on the importance of voting.
“Voting is an honor and a privilege, and is essential to our democracy,” Gustus said.
Early voting will conclude on Friday, March 1 before Election Day on March 5.
