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Once you are registered to vote in an election,
there are three ways to cast your ballot:
| Option One: |
Vote at home by mail using an Absentee Ballot
Voting by mail from the comfort of your home is a great way to vote when and where it's best for you.
- No need to take time away from work, school or family
- No need to travel (with gas being as expensive as it is) or wait in line
- No need to interact with machines - there’s nothing to learn to operate
- Take your time to carefully select the candidates you want to elect right down to the last name and office
- Stop campaign phone calls - submit your ballot early and public data will indicate you have already voted
An absentee ballot may be requested from the Supervisor of Elections (SOE) ...
Be sure to allow adequate time per the guidelines as the ballot request form must be returned by mail or FAX no later than 5:00 PM six days prior to an election (the Wednesday before the election).
Once you receive your absentee ballot, follow the instructions carefully and return the ballot as soon as possible.
- If you mail your ballot, be sure to affix the proper postage and allow enough time for the ballot to be received at the SOE office before 7pm on election day.
- You can also drop off your absentee ballot at any of the three Sarasota County SOE offices before 7pm on election day (You cannot drop off your absentee ballot at a polling place).
Your vote will be accurately counted on Election Day, just the same as any other vote cast that day.
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| Option Two: |
Early Voting at the Supervisor of Elections offices
Early voting is available during the two (2) weeks preceding the day before election day,
including half days on Saturday and Sunday. You will need a picture
I.D. with signature.
Early voting at the SOE offices is not available on the day before election day or election day. Check with the
Supervisor of Elections office or visit www.srqelections.com for early voting hours and locations.
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| Option Three: |
Go to your precinct polling place on election day The polls
are open on Election Day from 7am to 7pm. You must vote in your precinct polling place, which is listed on your Voter Information Card
or can be obtained here.
You will need a picture ID with signature (affidavits of identity are no longer acceptable). If you do not present a picture
I.D. with signature, you may vote with a provisional ballot*. If you are not familiar with the voting process, an inspector will explain the procedure to you and answer your questions. The voting process is also posted on a sign located in the voting booth.
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* If you vote with a provisional ballot, you have until 5 p.m. on the second day following the election to present additional evidence such as your I.D. and photo at the Supervisor of Elections office.
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