When is the deadline to register to vote in Connecticut? Your guide to 2024 elections
With the presidential election on Nov. 5, it may be time familiarize yourself with elections in Connecticut. Here's what you need to know to about voting in Connecticut.
There will also be a presidential primary election on April 2. Those who win the primary will be able to have their name on the ballot in November during the General Election.
The information bellow comes from the Connecticut Secretary of State’s website unless otherwise stated.
Registering to Vote
Connecticut voters can register in advance, or on election day.
If a voter wants to register in advance, it must be completed by seven days before the election. Democrat and Republican parties are the state’s major parties, and there are also several minor parties active in Connecticut. The state has a three-month waiting period if someone wants to change their party affiliation.
For Election Day registration, a voter will need to bring their proof of identity and residency to a town's designated place for Election Day registration, which is different from the polls. The hours are 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you are in the registration line when polls close, you will be allowed to register and vote.
Voter registration must be approved by the registrar of voters. An individual should receive registration confirmation in three weeks or less. Contact your town hall or registrar if this doesn’t happen.
Voter registration forms in English and Spanish are available on the Secretary of State’s website.
Absentee Ballots
Connecticut will issue absentee ballots to people who are active duty military, working as an election official outside of your own polling place, or are unable to come due to disability, sickness, or religious belief. Permanent absentee ballots are available for people with permanent disabilities.
Absentee Ballots applications can be obtained at the town hall or on the state website.
Town clerks process the absentee ballots. There are accommodations available for people with print disabilities. You will receive the absentee ballot 21 days before a primary and 31 days before the presidential election. Complete further ballot instructions correctly, and return the ballot by mail or in person. Town halls will often have drop boxes for absentee ballots. Absentee ballots must be received before polls close to count.
Early Voting
Early voting in Connecticut will occur in 2024. There will be 14 days of early voting for general elections, seven days of voting for most primaries, and four days of early voting for special elections and presidential preference primaries. Each municipality will have at least one early voting location, according to a press release from Governor Ned Lamont’s office.
Voting at the Polls
The polls open statewide on Election Day from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. People in line when the polls close can still cast their vote. Check with your town hall or look up where you’re supposed to vote on the Connecticut Secretary of State’s website. Photo ID is not required in Connecticut.
This article originally appeared on The Bulletin: Connecticut voter? Here's what you need to know to vote
