JACKSON Tenn (April 7, 2015) – Harrell carter, President of the JMC Branch of the NAACP released a statement on Monday regarding expanding early voting hours.

“The Jackson-Madison County NAACP Branch is disappointed that the Madison County Election Commission Chairman Phil Bryant has chosen not to consult the full commission on whether to request additional funds necessary to extend the early voting opportunities for the people of Jackson in the upcoming election. Some members of the city council were prepared to support this matter with the necessary funds, if they were requested by the election commission. No request has been forthcoming to extend the early voting hours leading up to the May 5, 2015 City of Jackson Election.”

The NAACP was asking the commission to expand early voting hours from the current 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday to 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday hours from the current 9:00 a.m. – noon to 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Carter said, “This would have expanded the opportunity for many Jackson residents to vote early. Many who work doing the day must be at work before 9 AM and do not get off until after 4 p.m. He added “If we are sincere in encouraging every adult to participate in the decisions of this great city we must find ways to include them at the foundation of civic participation and that is to vote.” Said Harrell Carter, President of the Jackson Madison County NAACP Branch.