Make sure you know where to go, what to bring, and how to report suspicious activity before heading to the polls.
With the rise in popularity of early voting due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some voters still prefer to vote in person on Election Day.
For those planning to join the lines on Election Day, here are answers to common questions they may have.
When Is Election Day?
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5.
Am I Eligible to Vote?
Only U.S. citizens ages 18 or older are allowed to vote in federal elections.
Also, most states and territories (excluding North Dakota) require voter registration.
Each state has its own registration deadline, with some offering same-day registration or provisional ballots for those who missed the deadline.
Check your registration status
here. Find state registration deadlines and policies
here.
Where Do I Vote?
Confirm your polling location and hours with your local elections office.
Do I Need ID?
Most states require voters to present some form of identification to vote in person, with rules varying.
Some states mandate a valid photo ID at the polls, while others accept alternative documents like a birth certificate, utility bill, or government-issued ID showing the voter’s name and address.
In some cases, voters may vote without showing ID.
Verify your state’s requirements
here.
Who’s on the Ballot?
The focus will be on the presidential race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Control of Congress is at stake, with attention on key House and Senate races.
Key
Senate races in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin will be closely watched. Additionally, attention will be on Montana’s race, where newcomer Tim Sheehy is expected to unseat three-term Democrat Sen. Jon Tester.
Sens. Ted Cruz, Deb Fischer, and Jacky Rosen are defending their seats, while the Arizona race to replace Sen. Kyrsten Sinema poses a notable contest between Rep. Ruben Gallego and Kari Lake.
All House seats are up for grabs, with
20 races identified as crucial for determining chamber control.
When Will We Know Results?
Due to increased mail-in voting, it’s unlikely all results will be announced on election night.
States have varying deadlines for returning absentee ballots and processing them.
For example, Arizona counts absentee ballots upon receipt but requires them to arrive by 7 p.m. MST on Election Day. Illinois allows ballots postmarked on Election Day to be received and counted within 14 days, starting the counting process after polls close.
Check your state’s ballot return deadlines
here or with your elections office.
The U.S. Postal Service recommends mailing completed ballots before Election Day and at least a week before your state’s deadline to ensure they are counted.
How Do I Report Election Integrity Issues?
If you suspect voter or election fraud, report it to your local elections office.
The Department of Justice offers an
online form for reporting incidents of voter suppression or intimidation.
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