Mainers can now request absentee ballots for the November election

Maine voters can now request absentee ballots for the November election.

Maine voters can now request absentee ballots for the Nov. 5 general election.

The ballots won’t be available until early October — 30 days before Election Day — but Maine law allows for people to request them three months before the election. Absentee ballots can be requested online or by contacting the local municipal clerk.

“Maine’s no-excuse absentee voting laws are foundational to our safe, secure and accessible elections,” said Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. “Voting in person on Election Day is always an option, but many busy Mainers find it more convenient to cast an absentee ballot, and those Mainers can put their request in now for the November election.”

In addition to the presidential race, the November election includes both of Maine’s seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, a Senate seat and state legislators. There are also five statewide referendum questions , including one about whether to adopt a new state flag .

Once an absentee ballot has been requested, voters can track the process of their request online . If a replacement ballot is needed, voters should contact their municipal clerk.

In-person absentee voting will also be available at town and city halls through Oct. 31. All absentee ballots must be returned to the voter’s municipality by 8 p.m. on Election Day.

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