Christine Palm

Voting is a sacred right, and, I would say, a duty of every American citizen. However, here in Connecticut, our "Land of Steady Habits" habit has meant that we have historically been among the most regressive states when it comes to voting access. So, in recent years, my colleagues and I have worked hard to remedy this. (Click HERE to read about reforms starting in 2021.)  

And now, for the first time, Connecticut citizens have three options when considering how to vote. This brings our state in line with virtually every other state in the nation. 
 
Starting with this general election (for president, Congressional representative, and state senator and representative), all registered voters can vote (1) in person on Election Day (as they have always done); (2) they can vote early (as voters do in most of the United States); and (3) they can vote by absentee ballot (if they meet certain criteria). There are details about these three methods below. 

Referendum Question

Please be aware that (in addition to candidate choices) on the ballot this November there is an important referendum question to further expand your voting options. The question is whether the state constitution should be amended to allow all voters to cast their ballots by mail. This is referred to, variously, as "unconditional absentee ballot" and "no excuse absentee ballot." (Learn more HERE.) 

In-Person Voting on Election Day:

• Voters can cast their ballots at their designated polling places.
• Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Make sure to bring an acceptable form of ID if you’re registering to vote on Election Day.
• Find your voting location HERE (click the "voter registration and election voting place locator" link)

Early Voting:

• Connecticut offers early voting, from October 21 - November 3
• Early voting locations for the district include:
  1. Chester - Town Hall Second Floor Conference Room, 203 Middlesex Avenue
  2. Deep River - Deep River Public Library, 150 Main Street
  3. Essex - Town Hall Auditorium, 29 West Avenue
  4. Haddam - Haddam Firehouse, 439 Saybrook Road, Higganum

Absentee Voting (Vote by Mail):

• Voters can request an absentee ballot to vote by mail.
• You must complete an absentee ballot application and submit it to your local election office.
• Make sure to return your completed ballot by mail or in person before the deadline.

Each option provides flexibility to ensure that everyone can participate in the election. Please be sure to MAKE YOUR VOTING PLAN!