When voters in Mississippi went to the polls for the presidential primary in early March, COVID-19 was not that large of a concern. Today is a very different story, and there is little doubt those concerns will exist when voters in the 2nd Congressional District are called back to the polls for a runoff election to decide who will be the Republican opponent to U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson.

That runoff election — the only race on the ballot for area voters — is scheduled for Tuesday, March 31. But in recent weeks, as the threat of the virus has grown, some states have delayed elections until the threat reduces.

As for the runoff election set for March 31, local election officials are waiting on Gov. Tate Reeves’ decision.

“There is no higher priority for Gov. Reeves than ensuring the health of all Mississippians and he is reviewing all options, including the safest options for upcoming elections,” Renae Eze, spokesperson for Gov. Reeves, said. “The governor is working around the clock to respond quickly and decisively to slow the spread and get accurate information out to the public in real-time.”

The two candidates vying for the Republican nomination are Thomas L. Carey and Brian Flowers.

Local election officials are hoping for a decision soon by the governor so they can quickly coordinate absentee voting for the runoff and order needed ballots.

When the runoff is scheduled and held, each of the county’s 23 precincts will be open. Polls will also be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.