Navigating the Election Process in Stark County: A Comprehensive Guide
As Election Day approaches, the landscape of voting in Stark County has undergone significant changes, making it essential for voters to stay informed and prepared. This year’s election is marked by a surge in early and absentee voting, a new requirement for presenting a valid photo ID, and important deadlines for absentee ballots. Let’s delve into the details to ensure you navigate the voting process seamlessly.
Early and Absentee Voting Trends
The trend of early and absentee voting has seen a remarkable increase, surpassing the figures from the 2019 election. As of Thursday, 11,590 individuals opted for early in-person voting at the Stark County Board of Elections, while more than 10,352 requested and 7,364 returned absentee ballots. This suggests a substantial early voter turnout, with nearly 19,000 votes cast before Election Day.
Comparatively, in the 2019 general election, only 4,453 people voted early or by mail. This shift in voting behavior emphasizes the evolving landscape of civic engagement and the importance of understanding the various avenues available to voters.
Key Changes in Voting Procedures
This election introduces a significant change regarding the conclusion of early voting. Unlike previous years, early voting concluded on Sunday, and the Ohio legislature eliminated the option to vote early on Monday, the day before the election. This alteration in the timeline underscores the importance of planning ahead to ensure your voice is heard.
Additionally, voters must be aware of the new requirement: presenting a valid photo ID to cast a standard ballot on Election Day. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license, state ID, passport, passport card, military ID, or Veterans Affairs ID. It’s crucial to note that student or college IDs are not accepted. If you lack a photo ID but object on religious grounds, you can sign an affidavit and cast a provisional ballot with the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Provisional Ballot Considerations
If you find yourself without a valid photo ID at the polling location, you can cast a provisional ballot. However, to ensure your vote counts, you must bring your valid photo ID to your county board of elections office within four days after the election.
In case a polling location encounters temporary issues preventing voting, voters have the option to wait or return later. However, re-entry must occur by 7:30 p.m., or you will not be permitted to cast your vote.
Absentee Ballot Procedures and Deadlines
For those who opted for an absentee ballot, strict adherence to deadlines is crucial. Absentee ballots must be mailed by Monday or dropped off at the Stark County Board of Elections office by 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday. It’s imperative to use the specified identification envelope, providing your driver’s license or state ID number or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Alternatively, you can include a copy of your photo ID with the identification envelope in a larger return envelope with your county board of elections’ address. Sign the identification envelope with your ballot to ensure it’s counted. If mailing the ballot, it must be postmarked by Monday and received by the Stark County Board of Elections by November 13.
For those preferring a hands-on approach, delivering the absentee ballot in person to the Stark County Board of Elections office at 3525 Regent Ave. NE in Canton is an option. Remember that only the voter or their close family members are permitted to drop off the absentee ballot.
Special Considerations and Assistance
Voters facing unexpected circumstances, such as hospitalization on Election Day, can contact the Stark County Board of Elections at 330-451-8683. The board will dispatch poll workers to the hospital, ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast their ballot.
Additionally, voters at Mt. Pleasant Church should take note of the entrance changes due to road construction. The Mt. Pleasant Street entrance is closed, and access should be through Pittsburg Avenue NW.
As the last call for voting approaches on Tuesday, it’s crucial to be well-informed and prepared to exercise your civic duty. Utilize online resources provided by the Stark County Board of Elections to confirm your registration, polling location, and sample ballot. Armed with this knowledge, you can navigate the voting process with confidence and contribute to shaping the future of Stark County.
