Paris, Tenn.–The Henry County Election Commission is currently conducting voter list maintenance to update the county’s voter registration database. This process is required by law and is designed to identify outdated or inaccurate information in order to improve the accuracy and integrity of Henry County’s voter rolls.
Elections Administrator DeLaina Green said, “The public should be aware of a recent Forbes news article highlighting the results of a poll conducted among registered voters who have not participated in recent elections. According to U.S. Census data, approximately 2 out of every 10 non-voting eligible citizens cited ‘not interested’ as their reason for not voting. Others said they were ‘too busy’ or felt there was ‘no one to vote for.’ Tennessee ranks at the bottom for voter participation.”
This level of disengagement is concerning and unacceptable. Elections are the cornerstone of our democracy. Every vote is a voice, and when citizens choose not to participate, they forfeit a fundamental right and responsibility. We encourage all eligible voters to stay informed, get involved, and make their voices heard at the ballot box.
The process begins with a review of all voters currently listed in “active” status. Based on the results of this review, one of two actions will occur:
- Phone Contact: Voters may receive a phone call from an election official if they have not had any activity on their voter file since 2020. Activity includes, but is not limited to, voting, address changes, or name changes.
- Verification by Mail: Alternatively, a verification card may be sent via non-forwardable first-class mail to the voter’s mailing address on file. This card instructs voters to complete and return it regardless of whether they have relocated.
- If the voter still resides at the address listed on their current voter registration card, they should complete the verification card and return it with their signature. This will update their voter file with a current date and maintain their active registration status.
- If the voter has moved, whether within Henry County, to another county, or out of state, they are strongly encouraged to complete (with signature) and return the card so that their voter registration can be properly updated or removed as necessary.
Important Voter Update:
Phone calls are currently being made to all registered voters who have a phone number on record and have had no activity on their voter file since 2020.
“Activity” includes but is not limited to:
- Voting in any election
- Updating your address
- Changing your name
- Any other update to your voter registration
These calls are part of routine efforts to maintain accurate and up-to-date voter rolls. This is a time-consuming process but saves the commission and tax payers on postage. If the call is not successful the verification card will be mailed.
For more information, please contact the Henry County Election Commission office at (731) 642-0411 or visit either the Henry County website (www.henrycountytn.org) or state website (www.sos.tn.gov/elections).
Photo: Administrator DeLaina Green and Deputy Ragan Wood at work. Shannon McFarlin photo.