Voters across Okmulgee County will soon have the opportunity to make their voices heard, as early voting begins Thursday ahead of the April 7 election. At the same time, those interested in serving their community are encouraged to step forward, with the candidate filing period for several key county offices now officially underway.
Early voting offers a convenient option for residents who may be unable to make it to the polls on Election Day. According to Okmulgee County Election Board Secretary Ashley Carnes, all registered voters are eligible to vote early – no excuse required.
“You do not need to provide an excuse to vote early,” Carnes said. “Oklahoma allows early voting for all elections conducted by the County or State Election Board. This is a great option for those who will be out of town on Election Day or who simply want to avoid long lines.”
Early voting will take place at the Okmulgee County Election Board office, Room 102 inside the Okmulgee County Courthouse at 314 W. 7th Street in Okmulgee. Polls will be open Thursday and Friday, April 2-3, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Officials note that while April 3 is a holiday and most courthouse offices will be closed, the Election Board office will remain open specifically for early voting and candidate filing.
The April 7 election includes school board seats and bond issues across six districts: Henryetta, Wilson, Liberty, Graham- Dustin, Tulsa Tech Center and Central Tech Center. Eleven polling locations across the county will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day.
Election officials are urging residents not only to vote, but also to consider running for office. The candidate filing period is currently open for several important county positions, including:
• County Treasurer
• County Assessor
• County Commissioner Dist. 1
• County Commissioner Dist. 3 Filing packets and additional information are available through the Okmulgee County Election Board by calling 918-756-2365 or emailing OkmulgeeCounty@elections.ok.gov. Materials can also be downloaded from the State Election Board website at oklahoma.gov/elections.
Stepping into public service is one of the most direct ways citizens can shape the future of their community, and officials encourage qualified individuals to explore the opportunity.
Voters who need assistance due to visual impairment, physical disability, illness, or other challenges may receive help from a person of their choosing or vote privately using the accessible ATI device available at polling locations. Election officials encourage those needing assistance to contact the Election Board in advance or speak with precinct workers on site.
To ensure a fair and orderly election, voters are reminded to follow all election laws. While taking a “ballot selfie” is permitted, sharing or posting the image must wait until after leaving the voting area. Additionally, voters may not remove ballots from polling places or disclose how they voted while inside the election enclosure.
Electioneering is prohibited within 300 feet of a ballot box, and only voters and election officials are allowed within 50 feet, with limited exceptions. Alcohol consumption is also prohibited within one-half mile of a polling place on Election Day.
Officials stress that violations of election law can carry serious consequences, including misdemeanor or felony charges. Anyone who witnesses a potential violation is encouraged to notify a precinct official or contact the Election Board immediately.
Visit the Okmulgee County Election Board Facebook page for updates.
