Florida primary election faces result delays in Keys due to missing fax lines

The upcoming primary election on August 18 in the Florida Keys faces potential delays in reporting results due to the removal of outdated copper landlines. Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Sherri Hodies stated that these lines were essential for the fax machines used to transmit election data. Because internet connections are not used for transmitting results, precincts must now securely seal voting results and use couriers to transport them to the Supervisor of Elections office for processing.

Hodies emphasized that while results may take longer to arrive, the change prioritizes the “accuracy, security and integrity” of the election. Early voting and vote-by-mail results are expected to be available by 7:30 p.m. on election night.

In North Port, Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins addressed supporters at the First Slavic Pentecostal Church as part of his campaign for governor. Collins, a former Green Beret, is running in a crowded Republican primary to succeed the term-limited Governor Ron DeSantis.