This allows voters to text a keyword and that number is automatically replied with a link to the most relevant and appropriate election website.
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — For the first time during the presidential election period, voters in the City of Portsmouth will be able to access voting and election information through a text message and opt-in alert-based system.
The system, run by TextMyGov, allows voters to text keywords to a set number, which automatically replies with a link to the most relevant and appropriate election website based on the keywords in the text message. will be done.
“We often hear people say, 'I didn't know' or 'I didn't see anything,'” said Alexandra Abell, Portsmouth's head of elections.
Phrases that result in incorrect answers when you call 757-394-8228 include “voting location,” “deadline,” and “absentee ballot.”
Voters can also receive regular election updates by texting “PORTSMOUTH VOTE” to 91896 and opting into the service.
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“Alerts can be scheduled to go out at different times. We have already scheduled alerts for this election to remind you that voting begins on June 8th and that voting begins that Saturday and June 15th.” We will notify you,” Abel said.
About 300 registered Portsmouth voters have opted in so far, Abel said. The program costs $8,000 a year and is covered by the Registrar's Office's operating budget.
“We have about 70,000 registered voters, so it would be nice to have 70,000 opt-ins,” Abel laughed.
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