Minnesota Voters Have Multiple Options for Casting Ballots Before Election Day
A news report from KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News provides information on the methods available for voters in Minnesota to cast their ballots before Election Day.
Minneapolis St. Paul, MN, September 18, 2026 —
Minnesota voters have several avenues to cast their ballots prior to Election Day, according to a report by KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News. These methods are designed to provide flexibility and accessibility for individuals who may not be able to vote on the official Election Day.
One primary method highlighted is early voting. While Minnesota does not have traditional in-person early voting locations open for a set period before Election Day at county election offices, voters can opt for absentee voting. This process allows registered voters to cast their ballot in person at their local election office or county courthouse up to 15 days before an election. This option is available to any registered Minnesota voter without needing a specific reason.
Another significant method is mail-in voting, also known as absentee voting by mail. Voters can request an absentee ballot to be sent to their home or another address. Once received, the ballot must be completed and returned by mail or in person to the voter’s local election office. Voters are encouraged to submit their absentee ballot requests and completed ballots well in advance of Election Day to ensure timely delivery and processing. The deadline to register to vote by mail is typically 21 days before the election.
For those who prefer to vote in person but cannot do so on Election Day, the process of casting an absentee ballot in person at their local election office serves as a form of early voting. This can be done anytime from 46 days before the election until the day before Election Day. Information regarding specific office hours and locations for absentee voting can typically be found through county election websites or the Minnesota Secretary of State’s office.
The report emphasizes that voters should ensure they are registered and familiar with the deadlines for requesting and returning absentee ballots. The Minnesota Secretary of State’s office provides resources to help voters check their registration status and find information on absentee voting procedures. The availability of these methods aims to facilitate voter participation by offering alternatives to voting on the official Election Day.
Story summarized from the original created by ryan-odeen91ql on kstp.com, see more information here.
