To the extent Ms. Cox intends to commit to implementing these plans, the ACLU of Kansas welcomes news that Ford County Clerk Debbie Cox plans to open at least two new polling places inside the city limits of Dodge City.
As recently as November, in her motion to dismiss (Pg. 6, footnote 2), Cox says, “No decision has been made as to how many polling places will be operated during the 2019 elections, which are confined to a small number of city races and which voter turnout is historically very low."
But, if she follows through on the two new sites, this is a step toward the relief we are seeking on behalf of our clients. Whether this particular plan is sufficient remains to be seen, but it is, however a tacit admission that a single, out-of-town polling place was insufficient for the needs of Dodge City voters.
We are pleased with the positive impact we’ve had on this situation and we’ll soon be in conversation with our clients who’ll ultimately decide whether to proceed with the lawsuit.