Put a stamp on it

The general election is a little less than three months away, but registered voters in Iowa wishing to cast absentee ballots need not worry about sending in a request.

Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate last month was given the go-ahead by a legislative panel to send absentee ballot request forms to all registered voters before the Nov. 3 election. Pate, a Republican, took a similar action prior to the June primary to help people avoid voting in person amid the coronavirus pandemic.

"I want Iowa voters and poll workers to be safe during this pandemic while we conduct a clean, fair and secure election," Pate said in a recent news release. "After consulting with all 99 county auditors, I believe the best way to accomplish that goal is by mailing an absentee ballot request form to every active registered voter in the state."

Voters will still have the option of casting their ballot in person, but they'll likely see fewer polling stations than they're used to. In June, the number of voting locations was significantly slashed for the health safety of both voters and election workers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The emphasis on absentee ballots led to a record turnout for a primary election in the Hawkeye State as more than 500,000 votes were cast. The previous record was set at 449,490 in 1994.

Only two voting locations were open two months ago in O'Brien County while Clay County had one. Personal protective equipment was available to voters and election workers frequently sanitized surfaces at each post.

"We will provide resources to protect Iowans who choose [to vote in person]," Pate said. "This process worked great in the June primary and I believe it will work in the general election."

Unregistered voters are encouraged to complete the simple sign up process as soon as possible. You may do so by visiting the Iowa Secretary of State Office's website and filling out a short form. You can also contact or visit your county auditor's office.

The statewide absentee ballot request form mailing is expected to take place in late August. Pate is also encouraging Iowans who've moved since the last time they've voted to update their voter registration.

"It's vital to keep your voter registration up-to-date, especially heading into a general election," he said. "We will be sending absentee ballot request forms to all active registered voters in a few weeks, and we need your address to be accurate."