The presidential election is now less than 2 weeks away! There are several ways that you can vote – early voting, absentee ballot, and in person at the polls. Here are some important deadlines and resources for Maine residents.
Absentee Ballot:
Absentee Ballot requests need to be received by October 29th. You can request or track the status of your Maine Absentee Ballot online at this link: Maine Absentee Ballot Online Request
Because mail service is behind during the pandemic, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to request and receive your ballot in time for Election Day. Don’t forget – the quickest way to return your ballot is at your local municipal’s ballot drop box or in-person at your town office! You can drop off your ballot in person until polls close on November 3rd.
Early Voting:
The last day to vote early in Maine is October 30th. To vote early, visit your local town office. They will provide you with a ballot that you can fill out and return there. You can register to vote on the same day that you vote early. Bring your identification with you to register and vote at the same time. This is a great option if you are looking to avoid crowds on Election Day.
Voter Registration:
Maine residents can register to vote until Election Day on November 3rd. Bring your proof of residency to your local town office any time before November 3rd to register before Election Day. You may also register at the polls before you vote on Election Day.
The following documents are acceptable proof of identification for the purposes of registering to vote, as stated on the Maine Secretary of State website:
- Government document or credential with photo ID (i.e. driver’s license, State ID, valid U.S. Passport, military ID)
- Government ID document/credential without photo (i.e. certified birth certificate or signed Social Security card)
- An official document that shows name and address of voter (i.e. eligibility for public benefits, utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck)
- Verified unique identifier (Maine driver’s license number or last four numbers of Social Security Number)
Local Voter Information:
Visit the State of Maine Voter Information Lookup Service to find election related information based on your home address. Find out where to vote, what candidates are on the ballot for your municipality, and your currently elected officials’ contact information.
Tips for Voting on November 3rd :
- Give yourself plenty of time to vote.
- If possible, go when the polls will be less busy. Most people go before work, on their lunch break, or after work.
- Know your polling station’s hours by clicking the link in the local voter information section.
- Follow Maine CDC best practices for wearing a mask, social distancing, and hand washing/sanitizing.
Thank you for being an informed voter and doing your civic duty by voting, this election and every election.