As we get closer to the 2024 U.S. elections, voters across the country are looking for the best and most convenient options to cast their vote for their preferred candidate. Being allowed to cast your vote earlier than the scheduled time is one way to ensure flexibility and allow as many Americans as possible to participate in the voting process. If you are in Minnesota or anywhere else in America, it is crucial for you to understand the voting options available for you as well as the dates and deadlines of the upcoming general elections. However, let’s get into the dates when early voting begins in Minnesota, what the criteria for absentee ballots are, and how you can ensure that you cast your vote for your preferred candidate even if you won’t be around on the actual election date.
When does early voting begin in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, early voting for the 2024 general elections starts on Friday, September 20, 2024. That is just 46 days before Monday, November 4, 2024. For this reason, you can easily cast your votes during this period especially if you will not be available to vote on the election day or you are stuck with a busy schedule by then.
The good thing with Minnesota and many other states in the U.S is that you have the “no excuse” absentee ballots option which allows you to go for early voting. And you will not be required to give any particular reason before you can vote via this option. All you have to do is select to vote either by mail or go to the polling unit in person. These options allow you to cast your vote in support of your preferred candidate without waiting until the election date.
When will the U.S. 2024 elections start and stop
The official Election Day for the 2024 U.S. elections is Tuesday, November 5, 2024. However, as mentioned earlier, early voting in Minnesota begins on September 20, 2024, giving you nearly a month and a half to cast your vote.
If you prefer to vote on Election Day itself, that’s great, but if you think something might come up, or if you want to avoid long lines, early voting is a fantastic option. By spreading out voting over several weeks, Minnesota makes it easier for you to find a time that fits your schedule.
Polls in Minnesota will be open from 7am to 8pm. on election day. However, if you’re in line when the polls close at 8pm, you’ll still be allowed to vote.
How can you vote if you will not be available on the election date
Sometimes life happens, and you might not be able to vote on Election Day. Thankfully, Minnesota makes it easy for you to vote even if you’re away or unavailable. Absentee voting is a key option for anyone who can’t make it to the polls on November 5.
There are two ways to vote absentee:
- By Mail: You can request an absentee ballot online, by mail, or in person. Once you receive it, fill it out and send it back. Just make sure it’s postmarked by Election Day and reaches the election office no later than seven days after Election Day to be counted.
- In-Person Absentee Voting: If you don’t trust the mail or just prefer to handle it in person, Minnesota allows in-person absentee voting. You can head to your county election office starting 46 days before Election Day, which is September 20, 2024 to cast your absentee vote. You’ll be able to vote right there and submit your ballot, ensuring it’s counted in time.
In-person absentee voting is especially useful if you want to avoid the stress of waiting for your ballot to make it through the mail.
How is absentee voting done in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, you can start absentee voting, either by mail or in person, 46 days before Election Day which means voting starts as early as September 20, 2024. This same early period applies whether you’re voting by mail or heading into your local election office to vote absentee in person. The process is easy, and Minnesota offers several options to make sure your ballot is securely submitted.
This flexibility with absentee voting ensures that even if you’re traveling, busy, or simply want to vote early, you’ll have ample time to make your voice heard.
In Minnesota, absentee voting is designed to give you control over when and how you cast your vote, eliminating the pressure of making it to the polls on November 5.
