Judge Order Four Baltimore Polling Places To Stay Open An Extra Hour

A judge has ordered four Baltimore polling places to each stay open an extra hour because they opened late.

The order sought by U.S. Senate candidate Donna Edwards was granted late Tuesday during a hearing that had to be moved to a parking garage because of a small fire at the courthouse. Polls were supposed to open at 7 a.m. Tuesday and close at 8 p.m.

State Board of Elections Administrator Linda Lamone says her agency opposed the request because extending hours at some polls would delay the release of results statewide.

Lamone says she’s aware of 14 late openings, most by about 30 minutes.

Edwards is seeking the Democratic nomination for Maryland’s open Senate seat. Fellow U.S. representative Chris Van Hollen is also running.