Thread by @Local24Brad

Just in from @ShelbyVote spokesperson: to date, about 25,000 absentee ballot requests received. All but 200 mailed to those voters. 13,582 of those requested ballots have been returned.

In 2016, about 8,000 absentee ballots requested TOTAL. Elections administrator with @ShelbyVote told me earlier this month they are preparing for possibly between 45,000 & 100,000 absentee ballot requests. To handle unprecedented count, @FedExForum will be used to count/scan.

Reminder: you have until October 27th in Shelby County and Tennessee to request an absentee ballot (if you are meet eligible criteria). #GoVoteTN

Now on this news conference. @MayorMemphis & @MayorLeeHarris updating public on the safety and security of upcoming elections.

.@MayorLeeHarris: I can ensure you your right to vote will be protected.

Now, Joe Young from @ShelbyVote commission.

Young w/@ShelbyVote: Our democracy is under assault from outside and within. Our democracy must always stand up to challenges. Election commission has worked with @ShelbyTNSheriff, @MEM_PoliceDept and others for quite some time.

Now: @MEM_PoliceDept Director Mike Rallings. We are keeping a close eye on potential threats. MPD officers won’t be stationed at polling locations but will be able to respond quickly to any potential issues at those sites if needed.

@ShelbyTNSheriff rep: you may see our cars around but that’s just to ensure voting goes smoothly and safely.

.@MayorMemphis: two campaigns were working at site & jawing at each other. That happens but we have to draw line when those kinds of things make VOTERS uncomfortable. Young w/@ShelbyVote: there have been NO specific threats or violence this election season but keeping close eye.

Young w/@ShelbyVote: today we did some safety training security scenarios.

Young w/@ShelbyVote: you ARE allowed to wear certain clothing or masks with phrases such as ‘Black Lives Matter’ or ‘I Can’t Breathe’ or previous campaign such as Reagan. You CANNOT wear clothing of CURRENT candidates.