Senate Resolution 57

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE MISSISSIPPI POLL WORKERS WHO HAVE SERVED OVER 50 CONSECUTIVE YEARS IN THIS ROLE AS THE "FRONTLINE OF DEMOCRACY."

WHEREAS, as the nation and electors in the State of Mississippi vote, it is natural to focus on candidates, policies and outcomes of the elections. Yet, behind every successful election are millions of dedicated election professionals and poll workers who make democracy possible. They are often volunteers who rise to the occasion to serve their communities, ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to make their voice heard; and

WHEREAS, election poll workers play a pivotal role in upholding the fabric of democracy through their dedication, resilience and service to their communities. Our election professionals and volunteer poll workers are a shining example of nonpartisan cooperation that puts our democracy and country first. They come together each election cycle to help their community vote; and

WHEREAS, with early voting in full swing across the country and record early turnout across states, this is an incredibly busy and exciting time for the elections community. In the past few years, professional election administrators have faced and overcome unprecedented obstacles, including the Covid-19 global health pandemic, personnel changes, extreme weather events, budget cuts, an increase in violent threats, and a more public profile overall. Yet the dedicated local election administrators who choose to stay in this profession have been working for months, even years, to maintain accurate voter rolls, secure voting locations, thoroughly test voting equipment, enhance security protocols, train their permanent and temporary labor force on the latest rules and regulations, and educate voters before they head to the polls; and

WHEREAS, as we reflect on the importance of free and fair elections, the state should take a moment to honor and thank those who serve behind the scenes, ensuring that our voices are heard and our democracy remains strong; and

WHEREAS, we join Secretary of State Michael Watson and the Secretary of State's Office in recognizing Mississippi poll workers who have served over 50 consecutive years in this role. To commemorate their longstanding tenure, the recipients have been honored with a ceremony at the Capitol on February 27, 2025. The names of the recipients are: Colene Cain, Freddie Byrd Farmer, Rosie Howze, Lelia Peters, Sarah Ratliff, Della Rose Gilmer, Gyrone Kenniel and Jean Sturgus; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we celebrate the contributions of all those who make our elections possible:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and pay tribute to the Mississippi poll workers who have served over 50 consecutive years in this role as the "Frontline of Democracy."

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to the Mississippi Poll Workers with over 50 consecutive years of service at a ceremony at the State Capitol on February 27, 2025, and be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.