Can Floridians still vote if they’re turned away at the polls?

If Florida residents are turned away at the polls during the Aug. 18 primary –– or any election –– they can request a provisional ballot to cast their vote.

A resident’s eligibility to vote may not be verified at a polling location if their name doesn’t appear on the voter registration list or if their identity can’t be confirmed.

If a voter believes they are eligible and there’s been an error, they can request a provisional ballot. The voter fills out the ballot like they would a regular one, but it is placed in a sealed envelope instead of the ballot box. Once the polls close, the eligibility status of a voter is determined by the county canvassing board. 

The ballot is removed from the envelope and counted if it’s determined that the resident is a registered voter in the precinct. If the resident isn’t eligible, the vote isn’t counted.