Election 2020: Voting Guide
Our next president, congress, state legislature and local elected officials will face daunting problems in the coming years. These leaders will need to step up to meet the climate crisis, to protect clean water and wildlife habitat, to work toward environmental health and justice, to listen to science, and to listen to all communities.
Get to know what's on your ballot
It's a consequential election, and your vote can make a difference. Check out your sample ballot now so you can make informed decisions about everything from the presidential election to local offices. Every unit of government has power to shape our collective future.
Vote early if you can
To reduce exposure risk to COVID-19, we encourage you to vote early if you're comfortable doing so. Here's our 2020 voting guide.
Before we launch into ways you can vote, brush up on your voting rights. (For example, your employer must allow you time to vote without losing pay.)
Register to vote
Minnesota has same-day registration for voters, but it's a good idea to register to vote in advance. You can do so online or with a paper application through October 13. If you're already registered, make sure your registration is current at your address.
Option 1) Vote absentee: Mail or drop off your ballot
- Request an absentee ballot as soon as possible. If you're not registered, make sure to request your ballot AND register to vote by October 13. Any registered voter can vote by mail for any reason. Fill out this online application to get your ballot (paper application also available).
- Check your application status and see when your ballot should arrive in your mailbox or, if you've returned it already, find out if it was received.
- Send your ballot back as soon as possible! Make sure to postmark your ballot no later than Election Day November 3. Your ballot also has to be received by November 10 to be counted.
- Rather not mail your ballot? You can also drop off your ballot anytime between now and 3 p.m. on Election Day to the election office that sent your ballot (not your polling place) instead.
Option 2) Vote early in person
- Early voting opened on September 18 and will close November 2. Find your early voting location and check its hours. (Your early voting location is NOT the same place as your Election Day polling place.)
- You can register at your early voting location. Find out what you need to bring with you to register.
- Make sure to wear a mask and keep six feet of distance.
Option 3) Vote on Election Day, November 3
- Because of COVID, your polling place may have changed. Double-check where you should vote.
- Minnesota allows voters to register on the day of the election. Find out what you need to bring with you to register.
- Make sure to wear a mask and keep six feet of distance.
Thank you for casting your vote with the river in mind.