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April elections postponed

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April’s city and school board elections have been postponed statewide until June because of the coronavirus. Gov. Mike Parson on Wednesday signed an executive order ordering all Missouri municipal elections previously scheduled for April 7 to be delayed until June 2. The order affects local Laclede County city, school board and other elections that were originally set for April 7. The Governor’s Office said the decision was made at the request of Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft. Parons explained the order in a press release. “Given the growing concern surrounding COVID-19 and the large number of people elections attract, postponing Missouri’s municipal elections is a necessary step to help combat the spread of the virus and protect the health and safety of Missouri voters,” Governor Parson said. “Postponing an election is not easy, but we are all in this together. We are thankful to Secretary Ashcroft and our 116 election authorities for their leadership, cooperation, and commitment to doing what is best for their communities during this time.” Current officials will stay in office until the new election is held, according to the Governor’s order. Ballots already printed for the April 7 election may be used at the postponed date of June 2. Voters who are age 18 by April 7 will be allowed to cast a ballot. Laclede County Clerk Linda Cansler said this was the first time in her memory the April municipal elections have been rescheduled. The Clerk’s Office is still mailing out absentee ballots until May 20. Then beginning May 21, absentee voting will have to be curbside voting at the courthouse in person at the County Clerk’s Office until June 2. “Our office is here to help you cast your vote for this June 2 election in the best possible way as we work through COVID-19 management in our community,” Cansler said.