September 27, 2008 - Mail-in ballots to go out Oct. 6

Paper: Ukiah Daily Journal (CA)
Title: Mail-in ballots to go out Oct. 6
Date: September 27, 2008
Author: Ukiah Daily Journal Staff

With more than 31 million ballots expected to be mailed this fall, the U.S. Postal Service is encouraging voters to "mail early" this election season.

A representative from the Mendocino County Elections Office said Friday that mail-in ballots will be sent to registered voters on Oct. 6 and must be returned to the office on or before Nov. 4.

Voters are asked to mail completed absentee ballots at least five days before they are due to ensure the safe, timely delivery of their vote. Americans overseas, including men and women in the Armed Services, should plan on sending ballots back at least two weeks before the general election. Service members stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan are asked to mail completed ballots by Sept. 30 when possible.

The representative from the county elections office said that members of the military from Mendocino County have already received their ballots because they are mailed 60 days prior to the election.

"Even in times of war, we have delivered the most fundamental symbol of democracy -- a ballot," stated Pat Donahoe, deputy postmaster general and chief operating officer in a Monday release. "The Postal Service recognizes the important role mail plays in the election process. We're committed to providing voters with first-class service. Help us make sure your voice is heard and counted. Please mail early."

Service members and Americans living abroad can mail their completed ballots free of charge by bringing the ballot to APO/FPO Post Offices or to a consulate of the United States.

Today, 28 states allow individuals to vote by mail via absentee ballots, without requiring an explanation. Three additional states allow each county within the state to offer voting by mail as an option. In the state of Washington, 36 of its 39 counties are completely vote by mail. Oregon is the only state in the country that casts ballots exclusively by mail.

For its part, Mendocino County has been moving an increasing number of voters to exclusively mail-in voting for several years.