Early voting starts today across Maine

Mainers can vote early by absentee ballot at all municipal offices starting Monday through the rest of October ahead of the Nov. 5 election.

High turnout is expected during this presidential year in a state that saw the second-highest share of voters come out for the 2020 presidential election. Former President Donald Trump, a Republican, is back on the ballot to face Vice President Kamala Harris, a Democrat, this year, while there is also a swing race in Maine’s 2nd Congressional District.

Maine allows no-excuse absentee voting, and the system doubles as the state’s form of early voting. You can fill out an absentee ballot in person at your municipal office now through Oct. 31, which is the Thursday before the election.

If you want to vote absentee and return your ballot by mail or in person to your local clerk, you can request a ballot using the state’s online form or making a request at your municipal office. The state recommends allowing seven to 10 days to get your ballot if you request one less than a month before the election.

New voters or those who have moved from one municipality to another can register to vote online for the first time this year. You can fill out a registration card at your city or town office or any Bureau of Motor Vehicles location.

You can also register on Election Day at your polling place. If you do that, you must provide proof of residence at your address, such as an ID or a utility bill.