Judge gives Floridians extra week to register to vote
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. _ Floridians will get one more week, through Tuesday, Oct. 18, to register to vote, a federal judge ruled Wednesday. The move could tip the balance of a pivotal swing state as Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump make their pitch to voters in the final month of the campaign.
After a one hour hearing, U.S. District Court Judge Mark Walker ruled the right to vote was fundamental and shouldn't be jeopardized because of a natural disaster like Hurricane Matthew.
"Hopefully it's not lost on anyone that it's the right to have a voice that is why this country exists," Walker said after issuing his ruling.
The original voter registration deadline was Tuesday, Oct. 11.
_ Orlando Sentinel
