Organizations in Mississippi are ramping up voter engagement as the countdown to the November 3rd election enters its final days.
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Mississippians are one week away from voting in what many are calling one of the most important elections of our lifetime. More than 140,000 people have already voted by absentee -- surpassing numbers in 2016. And election experts predict a record-breaking voter turnout at the polls next Tuesday.
Fletcher Freeman, State Chairman of the Mississippi Federation of College Republicans, says it's important for Mississippians to get out and vote.
To vote on things that directly impact Mississippians is something that's not always something we get to do," said Freeman.
"So a lot of times you get to see the state legislature vote on things and it's just kind of enacted from there but for Mississippians to get out and be able to vote for something that will directly impact them is extremely important.
In addition to the presidential race, congressional, and some judicial seats there are also three statewide ballot measures directly affecting Mississippians. There's an up or down vote on the newly proposed "In God We Trust" state flag, a resolution on how we elect candidates to statewide office, and two competing proposals on whether or not to legalize medical marijuana.
Arekia Bennett is the Executive Director of MS Votes. She says they're now focusing on helping voters finalize their Election Day plan.
"So, whether you have to work or you are going to be out of the county on Election Day? Either you're voting absentee or making sure that your values show up on your ballot on Election Day," said Bennett. "And, making sure you know where all of the polling places are that are unique to you and your family."
The deadline for in-person absentee voting is Saturday.