US state opens poll as virus toll climbs

Amid the catastrophic coronavirus pandemic spreading worldwide, the US state of Wisconsin has opened polls across the state for the presidential primary election. Hundreds of voters, many without masks covering their faces, waited in line to cast ballots at crowded polling sites. Some poll workers, including the Republican state Assembly speaker, were wearing masks, gloves and what appeared to be surgical scrubs.

West Allis: Polls are open across Wisconsin on a most unusual election day. Polls will remain open on Tuesday until 8 p.m., but voters are urged to be patient and take safety precautions.

Gov. Tony Evers tried to stop in-person voting with an order Monday, but the state Supreme Court ruled it must go on.

Cities have consolidated the number of polling sites due to a shortage of workers willing to interact with the public due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Thousands of poll workers said they would not work, resulting in National Guard troops being called on to fill in the gaps.

In addition to the presidential primary, thousands of local officials are on the ballot.

There is also a state Supreme Court race. Results aren't planned to be released until Monday because absentee ballots postmarked by Tuesday can still be received by then.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.

AP