Election Day is less than a month away, early voting begins tomorrow, and Americans are casting their ballot amidst turmoil and uncertainty. Since the coronavirus pandemic first began upending our lives back in March, the ever present concern of how to safely and fairly hold an election has been in the back of the minds of many.

Primary elections held across this country in the spring faced challenges as election officials tried to adapt to a new landscape. Here in Ohio, Governor Mike DeWine pushed back the March primary more than a month. There were court battles, and plenty of confusion to go around, resulting in low turnout.

Today, 90.3 WCPN ideastream and 89.7 WKSU are teaming up, to bring you another special simulcast of The Sound of Ideas.

This hour we speak to election officials and ask how they can ensure a safe and secure voting process, especially in the face of record requests for mail-in ballots. This of course due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, which adds plenty of complications to the act of voting. Joining us will be Director of the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections Anthony Perlatti, and Board Chair of the Summit County Board of Elections, William Rich.

We also hear from several reporters from both stations, who will share with us some of the stories they've been following during this election season. Nick Castele from ideastream, and M.L. Schultze, a contributor to WKSU weigh in with what they have been looking at, and will answer some of your questions.

Finally, we hear about some of the more marginalized members of the Northeast Ohio community, and how their votes may be affected. Carter Adams from WKSU will share his reporting on the transgender community, and Taylor Haggerty from ideastream speaks to the challenges facing the homeless population.

Guests:
Anthony Perlatti, Director, Cuyahoga County Board of Elections

William Rich, Board Chair, Summit County Board of Elections

Nick Castele, Reporter, ideastream

M.L. Schultze, Reporter, 89.7 WKSU

Taylor Haggerty, Reporter, ideastream

Carter Adams, Reporter, 89.7 WKSU