Number: RS22436
Title: Elections in States Affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita
Authors: Kevin J. Coleman, Government and Finance Division; Eric A. Fischer, Rsources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: The aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita created staggering problems and challenging conditions for the people of Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas, as well as for the state and local governments there. Many problems were immediately apparent, whereas others that involved ongoing government functions, such as elections, were less obvious at first. As 2006 approached, the challenge of running elections in the many affected communities became clearer. The Governor of Louisiana rescheduled a February city council and mayoral election in New Orleans for April 22; a runoff election for mayor was held on May 20, at which incumbent Mayor Ray Nagin was reelected. Questions about voter eligibility for displaced hurricane victims, particularly those from New Orleans, were raised, along with concerns about damaged and destroyed voting equipment, the availability of election workers and polling places, and numerous other logistical considerations. More broadly, a diminished electorate has altered the political landscape. Several bills have been introduced with respect to the impact of Katrina and Rita on the 2006 elections. S. 2166, passed by the Senate in February, would provide $50 million in disaster relief for elections.
Pages: 6
Date: October 17, 2006