As Indiana residents prepare to witness the total solar eclipse on April 8, they are also reminded of another important event happening that day – the deadline to register to vote in the state’s upcoming primary. County offices may be closed in anticipation of the eclipse, but exceptions may extend the deadline for some voters. If a county office is closed on the deadline date, the in-person application deadline is extended to noon the following day, giving Hoosiers until Tuesday, April 9 at noon to register to vote. Residents are encouraged to check with their county for operation hours.
While the deadline for in-person voter registration may be moved due to the eclipse, the deadline to register online remains the same. Hoosiers must submit online applications by 11:59 p.m. on Monday in order to register for the upcoming primary. The total solar eclipse will be visible across all of Indiana, with cities such as Terre Haute, Indianapolis, Bloomington, and Muncie in the path of totality. The celestial event is expected to drive significant tourism to the state.
Angela Nussmeyer, co-director of the Indiana Election Division, stated that the office does not have a count of how many counties may have modified hours due to the eclipse. Regardless of whether a county is closed for “eclipse day,” early voting will not be delayed and will start on Tuesday with the opening of county offices. The primary election in Indiana is scheduled for May 7, and residents are encouraged to ensure they are registered to vote before the deadline.
As the total solar eclipse captures the attention of residents across Indiana, they are reminded of the importance of not only observing this rare cosmic event but also participating in their civic duty by registering to vote. The state’s upcoming primary election is fast approaching, and the deadline to register falls on the same day as the eclipse. With the potential for modified operating hours in county offices, Hoosiers are advised to stay informed about any changes that may impact the voter registration deadline.
The unique convergence of the total solar eclipse and the voter registration deadline serves as a reminder of the significance of both natural and civic events. Indiana residents have the opportunity to witness a celestial spectacle while also exercising their right to participate in the democratic process. By ensuring they are registered to vote before the deadline, Hoosiers can make their voices heard in the upcoming primary election and contribute to shaping the future of the state. Despite the distractions of the solar eclipse, it is crucial for residents to prioritize their voter registration in order to have a say in the decision-making process that will impact their communities.
