Open carry allowed at Lee County polling places under Florida law

A volunteer poll worker’s question about whether voters can carry guns at polling places led to confirmation that open carry is allowed under Florida law. The Lee County Supervisor of Elections office stated that voters carrying firearms will not be turned away from polling sites. However, some voters shared their concerns about the policy. "I think I would be nervous. So it just, you know, with things that are happening today, I mean, if somebody walks into a room with a long gun, you almost have to assume the worst," said Johnathon Daniels, a Lee County voter. Last year, Florida’s First District Court of Appeals unanimously struck down the state’s ban on openly carrying firearms in public. Florida's attorney general issued guidance stating that this ruling makes Florida an open carry state. This election is the first time open carry will be allowed at polling places in Lee County. Lee County election officials said poll workers are instructed to treat voters carrying guns the same as any other voter. They added that poll workers would call 911 if a voter begins threatening others or interfering with the election process. Voters said the policy would not stop them from casting their ballots but raised concerns about safety at polling sites. "If in fact it is a policy, I think they should have police here as well. I just voted, and there were no uniformed police there, but I think if I saw a uniformed policeman, it would allay some of my fears," Daniels said. Collier and Charlotte counties confirmed they are also following the law. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV