Canton Citizen Election 2020 FAQ

When is the deadline to register to vote in the November 3 general election?

The last day to register is Saturday, October 24.

How can I register to vote?

You can register online at www.registertovotema.com if you have a Mass. driver’s license or state-issued ID; by mail via the form available at www.sec.state.ma.us/ele; or in person at the Canton Town Clerk’s Office, which will be open from 2-8 p.m. on October 24.

How do I check to see if I am registered to vote?

You can determine your registration status via the secretary of state’s “Am I Registered to Vote?” link (also available on the Town Clerk’s homepage).

Besides U.S. president, what other offices appear on the November 3 ballot?

The ballot also features contested races for U.S. senator and U.S. representative, Norfolk County commissioner, and Norfolk County sheriff. Uncontested offices include state senator and state representative, governor’s councillor, Norfolk register of probate, Norfolk treasurer, and several spots on the Blue Hills District School Committee.

Are there any questions on the November 3 ballot?

Yes, there are two initiative petition questions on the ballot. Question 1 concerns the “Right to Repair Law,” which would allow independent repair shops to have access to motor vehicle telematics data. Question 2 proposes the adoption of a “ranked-choice voting” system in Mass. primary and general elections beginning in 2022.

Is there a sample ballot available for me to look at in advance of the election?

Yes, a sample ballot has been posted on the Canton Town Clerk’s homepage.

What are my options for voting in the November 3 election?

Any registered voter can choose one of the following options: 1.) voting by mail 2.) voting early in person 3.) voting in person on Election Day, November 3.

Where and when can I vote early in person?

Early voting began on October 17 and is available daily at Canton Town Hall until Friday, October 30. The hours are listed under the News & Announcements section on the town website.

If I prefer to vote by mail, how do I obtain my ballot?

You must first complete a Vote by Mail Application, which is available on the Town Clerk’s homepage or at www.sec.state.ma.us/ele. Applications may be submitted to the Town Clerk’s Office in person; by mail to Town Clerk, 801 Washington St., Canton, MA 02021; by email to elections@town.canton.ma.us; by fax to 781-821-5016; or they may be placed in the drop box in front of Town Hall. Applications (not ballots themselves) are due by 5 p.m. on October 28.

What are my options for returning a mailed ballot?

Once you have successfully applied for and received your official ballot, you may mail it in the envelope provided, hand-deliver it to the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, or place it in the drop box in front of Town Hall.

When is the deadline for returning a mailed ballot?

The deadline to return a ballot in person to the Town Clerk’s Office or to deposit a ballot in the drop box is 8 p.m. on November 3. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by November 3 and reach the Town Clerk’s Office no later than November 6 in order to be counted. Ballots cannot be returned to a voting precinct on Election Day.

Are there any special requirements for returning a mailed ballot?

Yes, in addition to returning the ballot by the deadline, you must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope and return it with your completed ballot. Ballots without the signed envelope (so-called “naked ballots”) will be rejected.

If I prefer to vote on Election Day, what are the polling hours and where do I vote?

The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day, November 3. You should vote at your regular precinct location. If you are unsure which precinct your are in, click on the “Find Your Precinct” link available on the left side of the Town Clerk’s homepage.

Should I bring anything with me to the polls?

Yes, you should wear a mask or face covering when voting in person if you are physically able to do so. The secretary of state’s office also recommends that you bring personal identification, which is required in some circumstances.

Can I vote more than once?

No, and doing so — or attempting to do so — is a crime under Massachusetts law, punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 or imprisonment for up to five years. If you mail a ballot and it is accepted by the Town Clerk’s Office, then you cannot change your mind and attempt to vote in person.

If I applied for a ballot by mail but did not return it, can I still vote in person?

Yes, as long as your ballot has not been returned to the Town Clerk’s Office, you may vote in person. You may also vote in person if your mailed ballot was rejected for any reason.

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Posted by Jay Turner on Oct 23 2020. Filed under Featured Content. Both comments and pings are currently closed.