New Jersey's Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way is urging eligible voters to participate in the upcoming November 5 General Election, emphasizing the state's efforts to ensure a safe and secure voting process. As Secretary of State, Way oversees the New Jersey Division of Elections and highlights three convenient voting methods available at VOTE.NJ.GOV: at polling places on Election Day, in-person early voting, and using mail-in ballots.
"We continue to make it convenient for New Jersey’s eligible voters to exercise their right to vote," said Lieutenant Governor Way. "They can choose to participate in the early voting period, which is Saturday, Oct. 26 through Sunday, Nov. 3, use a mail-in ballot, or come out on Election Day."
Way also noted the user-friendly nature of the VOTE.NJ.GOV website: "The VOTE.NJ.GOV website truly makes it easy to check everything needed. From their registration status and polling place location to county early voting sites and secure dropboxes, it’s a seamless and user-friendly experience."
Acting Director of the Division of Elections Donna Barber stressed the importance of adhering to election deadlines. "County clerks are currently sending mail-in ballots for this election to those voters who requested them, and voters can continue to apply for a General Election ballot until Tuesday, October 29," Barber said. She added that voters could utilize any county early voting locations during the five-day early voting period or visit local polling places on November 5.
Details and important dates for each voting method are as follows:
1. **At Local Polling Place on General Election Day**
- Registered voters can vote in person from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on November 5.
- Accommodations will be made for voters with disabilities.
- Polling locations are listed on VOTE.NJ.GOV.
2. **In-Person Early Voting: October 26 through November 3**
- Allows registered voters to cast their ballot using a machine before Election Day.
- Voters can vote at any designated county location found at VOTE.NJ.GOV.
- Hours are Monday-Saturday from 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m., and Sunday from 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
- No appointment necessary; accommodations available for disabilities.
3. **Using A Mail-In Ballot**
- Eligible voters must apply for a mail-in ballot via instructions at VOTE.NJ.GOV or by contacting their County Clerk.
- Applications must be received by October 29 if mailed or by November 4 if submitted in person.
- Return options include mailing (postmarked by November 5), using secure ballot drop boxes (by 8 p.m., November 5), or delivering directly to the Board of Elections office (by 8 p.m., November 5).
- Note that mail-in ballots cannot be returned at polling places.
For further information regarding voter registration status, polling locations, early voting sites, or secure dropbox locations, residents are encouraged to visit VOTE.NJ.GOV.
