As an expert in the field of elections and voting, I have seen firsthand the impact that alternative voting methods can have on increasing voter turnout and accessibility. With the 2020 election just around the corner, many Americans are considering voting by mail as a safe and convenient option amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In this article, I will provide a comprehensive guide to voting by mail in Denver, CO, including the process, important dates to remember, and tips for ensuring your vote is counted.
Why Vote by Mail?
Voting by mail, also known as absentee voting, has been around for decades and is a popular option for those who are unable to vote in person on Election Day. This could be due to a variety of reasons such as being out of town, having a disability, or simply preferring to vote from home.However, this year, with the added concerns of the pandemic, many states are expanding their vote by mail options to allow more people to participate in the election while minimizing the risk of exposure to COVID-19. In Denver, CO, all registered voters will automatically receive a mail-in ballot for the upcoming election. This means that you do not need to request one in advance. However, if you prefer to vote in person, you can still do so at designated polling locations on Election Day.
The Process for Voting by Mail
The first step in voting by mail is making sure you are registered to vote. In Denver, you can check your registration status online through the Denver Elections Division website.If you need to register or update your information, you can do so online or by mail up until October 26th. Once you have confirmed your registration status, you will receive your ballot in the mail approximately three weeks before Election Day. It will come with instructions on how to fill it out and return it.
Important note:
If you have moved or changed your name since the last election, you must update your information with the Denver Elections Division in order to receive your ballot. When you receive your ballot, make sure to read the instructions carefully. You will need to fill out your ballot using a black or blue pen and completely fill in the ovals next to your chosen candidates. Once you have completed your ballot, you will need to sign and date the envelope provided.Tip:
Make sure to use the envelope provided and not any other envelope, as this could result in your ballot being rejected. After you have sealed your ballot in the provided envelope, you can either mail it back or drop it off at one of the designated drop-off locations.If you choose to mail it back, make sure to do so early enough for it to be received by Election Day. The Denver Elections Division recommends mailing it back at least eight days before the election. If you prefer to drop off your ballot, there are several locations throughout Denver where you can do so. These include designated drop boxes, early voting locations, and polling locations on Election Day. You can find a complete list of drop-off locations on the Denver Elections Division website.
Tracking Your Ballot
If you are curious about the status of your mail-in ballot, you can track it online through the Denver Elections Division website.This allows you to see when your ballot was mailed out, when it was received by the elections office, and when it was counted.
Note:
If there are any issues with your ballot, such as a missing signature or mismatched signature, the Denver Elections Division will contact you to resolve the issue.Important Dates to Remember
As with any election, there are important dates to keep in mind when voting by mail in Denver, CO. These include:- October 26th: Last day to register to vote or update your information
- October 26th: Last day to request a replacement ballot
- November 3rd: Election Day - all ballots must be received by 7pm
In Conclusion
Voting by mail is a safe and convenient option for those who are unable or prefer not to vote in person. In Denver, CO, the process is simple and accessible to all registered voters. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your vote is counted in the upcoming election. Remember, every vote counts and it is important to exercise your right to vote.So whether you choose to vote by mail or in person, make sure to make your voice heard in the 2020 election.
