“Is That Your Ballot on the Counter?” and Other Election Day Questions
With the stakes of the 2020 election as high as they are, we don't need to ask you if you're voting (we know you are)!
But here are a few questions over the next two weeks:
Have I received my ballot?
By Tuesday, October 22 you should have received your ballot—Oregon mails them to all registered voters. Call (503-988-VOTE) if you haven't by this date.
I'm pretty clear on my presidential options, but how do I know what to vote for at the local level?
There's a lot to consider! Voters' Guide is a great resource for explaining the local candidates and measures you can choose from this year.
How do I return my ballot?
Oregon is a vote-by-mail state—there are no polling places—but if you can always drop your ballot off at dropbox if you're more comfortable.
You have until Thursday, October 27 to mail your ballot back in time for it to confidently be counted.
Dropboxes are open now—just find one near you and drop your ballot there anytime between now and 8pm on November 3rd.
How do I know if my ballot's counted?
You can track your ballot's status here. Gotta love technology!
What can I do right this second?
Set reminders! Use reminder apps, send yourself calendar invites - do whatever works for you to commit to a day and time for each step.
Thursday 10/22: Make sure you have your ballot; call (503-988-VOTE) if it hasn't.
Friday 10/23–Monday 10/26: Fill out your ballot. You get a weekend to do it but won't take that long! It's a great time to pick up stamps, too, if you plan to mail.
Tuesday 10/27 (If Mailing): Mail in your ballot.
Tuesday 10/27–Tuesday, 11/3 8PM: Drop your ballot off at a dropbox.
If you're still anxious or feel overwhelmed, it's completely understandable, but don't sweat it! Oregon's vote-by-mail system has been around (and popular) for decades, and unlike some other states, early votes begin to be tallied as early as seven days before the election. It's an election year unlike any other, but the state and local officials are working hard to keep things as easy, secure, and safe as possible for every Oregonian.
Now you know the drill, y'all: stay excellent, stay safe, and stay ready!
