Public hearings to be held on unusual provisional ballot use

Two public hearings have been set to discuss the large number of provisional ballots cast in Philadelphia in the Nov. 6 presidential election, the mayor's office announced Monday.

The city is seeking the public's input on what led to more than 27,000 votes cast by provisional ballots, which are used when questions arise at the polls about a voter's eligibility on Election Day.

The city's Managing Director, Richard Negrin, said in a release that some people have claimed voter registration delays caused inaccuracies in poll books, which in turn resulted in the increased use of provisional ballots.

"Slightly more than 4 percent of Philadelphians voted by provisional ballot.  Our initial research shows that this is a much higher number than the rest of the state," Negrin said. "We want to find out why it was higher and we need the public's help to do that."

The city is asking voters to tell their stories or make recommendations here. They can also call or text (267) 209-FACT. Voters need to include their contact information and voting location in case follow-up is needed.

Two public meetings are currently scheduled for 4:30 to 7 p.m., Feb. 6, in the Mayor's Reception Room on the second floor of City Hall and 4:30 to 7:00 p.m., Feb. 28, at Bright Hope Baptist Church, 1601 N. 12th St.