Presidential primary adds new wrinkle to election
By SHARON KERR Staff Writer

Now that "Super Tuesday" is over, Texans are surprised to find their primary may be crucial to the success or failure of a presidential candidate. Diana South of the Jasper County Clerk's office says it is important that voters also understand that casting a vote in the Texas primary will determine whether they can vote in an expected runoff election in April.

"When voters come to vote in the March 4 primary, they will be asked whether they want a Republican or Democratic ballot," South said. "And that decision will affect whether they can vote if we have an April runoff election for sheriff, commissioner, or constables."

Anyone who takes a Republican ballot for the primary election will not be eligible to vote in a Democratic runoff.

This year, people may have to choose between voting for their presidential favorite or voting for local law enforcement.

"We want to be sure people understand that before the primary," South said.

"It's hard for our volunteers when they have to tell people later that they can't vote. This is the first time I can remember that this primary in Texas will make such a big difference."

Early voting for the March 10 general election is Feb. 19-23 and Feb. 25- 29 at the courthouse Annex.

Early voting will also take place Feb. 22-23, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Evadale Fire Hall, Buna and Kirbyville subcourthouses, and Browndell Community Center.

Curbside voting is available for the handicapped at the Jasper courthouse annex.

Jasper voting machines can be set to assist the sight-impaired or blind.

The presidential primary election will be March 4.

The Democratic runoff, if necessary, will be April 28.

Voters who have not registered yet have until March 10 to register to vote in the runoff.