TEXAS—After almost four hours of testimony, the Tarrant County Commissioners Court decided, on a 4-1 vote, to keep all 51 polling locations in the county, including the popular campus polling location at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). Three polling location scenarios were proposed this morning, including one with plans to remove the UTA polling location. 161 people signed up to testify, and many young Texans voiced how this proposal would have the consequence of restricting voter access for students. This is a victory for student organizing and another example of how people power secures wins for our communities.
In celebration of this win for UTA student voters, Claudia Yoli Ferla, Executive Director of MOVE Texas Civic Fund issued the following statement:
“Since 2008, UTA has been a popular, high-turnout polling location for students, faculty, and surrounding community members. Today, Tarrant County decided to match the dedication and energy of young people by keeping the University of Texas – Arlington as a polling location. At MOVE Texas, many students cast their ballots for the first time at their college, and campus polling locations are necessary for sparking young voters’ life-long civic engagement.
Colleges and universities are key community institutions that provide accessible facilities for the public. We are excited that UTA students will continue to have a reliable, central location to cast their ballots safely.
The proposal to remove any location, let alone a campus polling location, should never be considered. Ahead of a high-turnout election, Tarrant County Election Administrator Clint Ludwig has expressed grave concerns about not having enough Early Voting sites. The conversation should have always centered on ensuring enough accessible locations.
In the last decade, young voters have consistently turned out in high record numbers. Their energy and dedication to our democracy are undeniable and show no signs of slowing down. We all want a democracy that is representative, hears our concerns, and takes action. Together, we will continue to show up at commissioners court, in our communities, and at the ballot box to realize that future.”
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MOVE Texas Civic Fund is a grassroots, nonpartisan nonprofit organization that builds the power of young Texans through civic engagement, leadership development, and issue advocacy.
