Pennsylvanians are running out of time to request a mail ballot and submit it for the upcoming Nov. 5 general election. The deadline to request a mail-in ballot is set for 5 p.m. on Tuesday, and elections officials are urging voters to act promptly. To request a ballot, voters can visit their county elections office or apply online through the Department of State. It is also recommended to include an email address when requesting a mail-in ballot to receive notifications when the ballot is sent out and accepted upon return. Voters must ensure that their completed ballots are in their county’s possession by 8 p.m. on Election Day, either by mailing it back or delivering it in person to the county elections office. Online tracking forms are available for mail-in ballots, requiring the voter’s first name, last name, date of birth, and county information.
Anne Norton, the director of election services in Berks County, mentioned that the postal service has been efficient in delivering and returning ballots. However, as Election Day approaches, mail-in voters are encouraged to consider hand-delivering their ballots to drop boxes or the county election office to ensure their votes are counted. Each county sets its own rules for drop boxes, with Berks County having three available locations. Voters must return their ballots themselves, with limited exceptions, unless they have disabilities and require assistance from a designated agent. This process involves completing a designated agent form.
Those who have already requested a mail-in ballot but wish to vote in person can do so by bringing their ballot and declaration envelope to their polling place, surrendering the mail ballot, and filling out additional paperwork before casting their vote in person. Failure to surrender the mail ballot and envelope will result in voters only being able to vote provisionally. In Lebanon County, more people are opting for early in-person voting by requesting a mail-in ballot, voting it, and returning it at the county election office before the Oct. 29 deadline. Although Pennsylvania does not have traditional early in-person voting, this method allows voters to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day.
Key dates to remember for the upcoming election include Oct. 29, the last day to apply for a mail-in ballot, and Nov. 5, Election Day, when completed mail ballots must be received by 8 p.m. Voters are advised to carefully follow the provided instructions for marking and returning their ballots to avoid rejection. The ballot must be sealed in the designated envelopes, signed, and dated accordingly. This information is part of an explanatory series focused on Pennsylvania elections led by democracy reporter Jordan Wilkie in collaboration with WITF in Harrisburg and The Associated Press, supported by several private foundations to enhance coverage of elections and democracy.
In conclusion, Pennsylvania voters are urged to act quickly to request and submit their mail-in ballots for the upcoming general election. With the deadline approaching, it is crucial for voters to follow the instructions provided, ensure timely delivery of their completed ballots, and consider alternative methods such as hand-delivery to ensure their votes are counted. By staying informed about important dates and procedures, voters can effectively participate in the electoral process and make their voices heard in the upcoming election.
