Twenty-one Johnson County elected officials have signed a letter asking Johnson County Election Commissioner Connie Schmidt to reinstate eight advance voting sites for this year’s general election. The same eight sites are slated to be closed during the Aug. 4 primary.

Concerns Over Voting Access

The letter, which includes signatures from Democratic U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids and three Democratic gubernatorial candidates, expresses concern that the closure of early voting locations undermines the foundation of democracy and reduces access to the ballot. The signees argue that the closures will disproportionately affect low-income voters, voters of color, elderly voters, voters with disabilities, and communities with limited access to transportation.

Schmidt has defended the cuts, saying the new, smaller lineup of polling places is more evenly spaced throughout the county and more consistent. The sites will all have the same hours of operation and be open on the same days. She also noted that her voting plan doubles the number of secure drop boxes to which voters can return advance ballots.

The new letter commends Schmidt for adding more ballot drop boxes, emphasizing uniformity and expanded hours for early voting. However, it concludes by saying election practices should remain “fair, accessible, and inclusive.” The signers respectfully request that all advance voting locations be reinstated for the 2026 General Election to ensure all voters retain practical and equitable access to the ballot.

Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.