Maryland and Mississippi have both begun early and absentee voting, joining a growing list of states where voters can cast their ballots before Election Day. Key downballot races are taking place in these early voting states, including the closely watched Senate race in Maryland. While the presidential race may not be competitive in these states, the Senate race in Maryland between Republican former Gov. Larry Hogan and Democratic challenger Angela Alsobrooks is one to watch on election night.
In Maryland, Hogan has tied Alsobrooks in a recent poll, despite the state’s history of voting for Democratic senators. Hogan has distanced himself from former President Donald Trump and has put forth moderate policy proposals. Alsobrooks, on the other hand, is leaning on her experience as a county executive and prosecutor, and benefits from the state’s heavily blue tilt. This race is ranked Leans D on the Fox News Power Rankings.
When it comes to voting in Maryland, residents have options for casting their ballots. Absentee voting began on Monday, and voters do not need to provide an excuse to receive a ballot. The state must receive a ballot application by Oct. 29, and the ballot must be delivered to state officials by Nov. 5. Early in-person voting in Maryland begins on Oct. 24 and runs through Oct. 31. Residents can also register to vote online, by mail, in-person during early voting, or on election day.
In Mississippi, residents also have the opportunity to vote early and by absentee ballot. Absentee voting began on Monday, but applicants must provide an excuse to receive a ballot. The state must receive a ballot application by Nov. 4, and the ballot must be delivered to state officials by Nov. 5. Unlike Maryland, Mississippi does not support early in-person voting. Voter registration in Mississippi is open through Oct. 7 and can be done by mail or in-person.
Overall, early and absentee voting is underway in nearly 20 states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Virginia. While states beginning their early voting may not be competitive at the presidential level, there are key downballot races to watch. The Senate race in Maryland, between Larry Hogan and Angela Alsobrooks, is one of the races to keep an eye on. Residents in both Maryland and Mississippi have options for casting their ballots, whether by mail or in-person, and should be sure to check voter eligibility, processes, and deadlines to ensure their vote is counted in the upcoming election.
