Voting is every American’s right, but complications may arise that could prevent someone from letting their voice be heard.
In Texas, all registered voters have a right to a ballot. Issues such as address changes on their ID, voter influence and intimidation, sometimes happen. You as a voter have the right to bring the issue to light.
Here are some ways you can report a problem at the polls to election officials.
1. Talk to an election judge at the polling place
According to the Texas Secretary of State, you can request to speak to an election judge about an issue you may have regarding the election or the polling place.
2. Talk to your local county officials
To report a problem in the Houston-area, you can contact your local county clerk if the issue is not resolved at the poll or if you would rather take it to local officials. Here’s who you should contact.
Harris County
- Teneshia Hudspeth, Harris County Clerk: 713-755-6965
- Ann Harris Bennett, Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar: 713-274-8000
Galveston County
- Dwight D. Sullivan, Galveston County Clerk: 409-762-8621
Brazoria County
- Joyce Hudman, Brazoria County Clerk: 979-864-1662
Fort Bend County
- Hon. Laura Richard, Fort Bend County Clerk: 281-341-8670
3. Call the Election Protection Hotline
According to Vote.org and VoteTexas.org, if you were denied your right to vote or if there was a problem while voting, you can call the hotline at 866-687-8683 (OUR-VOTE).
4. File a complaint with the Texas Ethics Commission
To file a complaint, click here to download a complaint form and fill it out in its entirety. The form can be mailed, scanned and emailed or faxed to the Texas Secretary of State’s office.