John,

There has been a lot of misinformation spread regarding the effect of Gov. Northam's stay-at-home order and how it will affect the upcoming local elections on May 5th and primary elections on June 9th. It is important that you know how to participate in Virginia's elections, that is why I would like to share with you some information compiled by my office.

While the Governor's order lasts until June 10th, in-person voting will still occur at normal polling locations on May 5th and June 9th. A spokesperson for the Governor's office stated the order does not apply to "the operation of government," which includes operating and participating in elections.

Additionally, absentee voting has been expanded to allow anyone with COVID-19 safety concerns to select "illness or disability" and receive a mail-in ballot. You can request your absentee ballot by clicking here.

Nothing in our democracy could be more important than transparent elections. It is your right to be fully informed on where and how to vote. I encourage you to forward this email to your friends and family who may be in the dark about the election process in the coming months.

As always, please be encouraged to reach out to my office if I can ever be of assistance.

Sincerely,

Ben Cline