With The Absentee-Ballot Deadline Extended, There’s Still Time To Cast Your Vote Safely

If you haven’t had a chance, there is still time to cast your vote via absentee ballot for the June 23, 2020 primary election. 

This week, because of the ongoing effects of the coronavirus pandemic, Governor Cuomo extended the deadline to submit absentee primary ballots. As long as your ballots are postmarked by June 23 they will be counted. Last month, Cuomo issued an executive order allowing all New Yorkers to cast absentee votes for the upcoming primary and special elections in New York. 

The easiest and quickest way to apply for your absentee ballot is to request one online right now. You can also get an application by calling 1-866-VOTE-NYC to have an application sent to your home.

Once your absentee ballot arrives, fill it out and postmark it by June 23. Check the box that says “Temporary Illness” as the reason you are submitting an absentee ballot. (The definition of “Temporary Illness” has been temporarily expanded to include those affected by COVID-19 as well as the potential of contracting the virus to prevent community spread.) You also have the option of having someone deliver the ballot in person to your local board of elections by June 23. 

In addition to the presidential primary being reinstated on the New York State ballot, there are also several key local races for which your vote can make a meaningful difference. Find out who’s on the ballot in your voting precinct. 

photo: iStock