By State Rep. Donna Schaibley, House District 24
Hoosiers have changed their routines and businesses have adapted their operations to help slow the spread of the new coronavirus and save lives. Our state and our election officials are also doing their part to ensure we have a safe and secure primary election.
Indiana recently rescheduled its primary to June 2 to help protect voters and poll workers. Hoosiers do not need a reason to request an absentee ballot for the upcoming election and can submit an application online to receive a mail-in ballot. By giving all voters the choice to vote by mail or in person, the number of individuals choosing in person voting should be reduced, and therefore lessen the health risks of a more crowded polling site.
To request a ballot online, visit IndianaVoters.com, click on the “Visit My Voter Portal” button at the bottom of the page and fill out your information. Click “Absentee Voting” in the gray box on the left-hand side of the screen and then click “Vote By Mail.” Fill out and submit the application to receive your mail-in ballot.
Voters have until May 21 to submit their request. Mail-in ballots must be received by noon on June 2.
For those who received a mail-in ballot dated May 5, 2020: it is still valid. Voters can also cast ballots in person. Early voting begins May 26 and runs through June 1. Hoosiers can vote in-person on June 2. To check registration status, find early voting locations and hours, or to see who is on the ballot, visit IndianaVoters.com.
This ongoing pandemic caused us all to make significant adjustments, including postponing our primary election. Hoosiers concerned about their health risks should consider the mail-in voting option, and those planning to cast a ballot in person, should social distance to protect other Hoosiers and poll workers.
