The pandemic has brought about change in many aspects of our lives, and that includes how we fulfill our fundamental right to vote in the upcoming November election.
In this 12 on 12 Digital Original, we lay out everything you need to know, from the different ways you can cast your ballot to the important deadlines and races and what’s being done to ensure your vote is counted.
In this 12 on 12: Watch: Atypical Election | Voter Guide | Q&A: Key Races | Voter Survey | FAQ | More Election Coverage
Watch: Atypical Election
12 News reporter Anita Baffoni sits down with Rhode Island Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea to discuss the upcoming election and address concerns voters may have about casting their ballot.
Voter Guide: What you need to know for the November election in RI, Mass. »
Ballots can be cast in person, early, or by mail: All the information you need, no matter how you plan to vote.
Q&A: Key Races
12 News politics editor Ted Nesi previews some local races to watch for on Election Day.
Voter Survey
Commonly Asked Questions
Q: Can I still register to vote?
A: The deadline to register to vote in Rhode Island was October 4. If you missed the deadline, same-day registration will be available at your polling place on Election Day, but you would only be able to vote in the presidential race.
In Massachusetts, the deadline to register to vote is October 24. You can register online, by mail, or in person at any city or town hall.
Q: If I apply for a mail ballot but don’t submit it, can I still vote in person?
A: The state of Rhode Island asks that if you apply for a mail ballot, you complete the process by mail. If you attempt to vote in person, you will be required to use a provisional ballot so election officials can determine if you have already cast a mail ballot.
For Massachusetts residents, as long as you haven’t voted by mail, you can still vote in person at your polling location. You can also vote in person if you mail your ballot and it does not reach your election office by Election Day or if your mail-in ballot is rejected for any reason.
Q: I didn’t apply for a mail ballot but now have to quarantine and can’t vote in person, what do I do?
A: Rhode Island voters can request an emergency mail ballot from their local board of canvassers. An emergency mail ballot must be received by the Board of Elections by 8 p.m. on Election Day.
If a Massachusetts resident has been instructed to quarantine within one week of the election, they may use the absentee ballot application to designate someone to deliver a ballot to them. This person will need to bring the signed application to your local election office, pick up your absentee ballot, bring it to you and return it by the close of polls on Election Day. Emergency ballots can be requested until the polls close.
Your Local Election Headquarters
12 News has you covered throughout election season. From the latest headlines to interviews with the candidates and in-depth analysis, count on Your Local Election Headquarters for complete coverage both on-air and online.
Latest Headlines » | Real-Time Race Results » | Washington, D.C. Bureau » | Newsmakers » | Pulse of Providence »
Credits
Reporter – Anita Baffoni
Executive Producer – Shaun Towne
Photographers/Editors – Corey Welch, Anita Baffoni, Nick Blair
Graphic Designer – Lisa Mandarini
Digital Content Producers – Lee Dooley, Bay Gammans
Special Thanks – Ted Nesi, Jen Quinn, James Bartone, Jess Bradley, Susan Tracy-Durant, Karen Rezendes
