Minnesota State University Reporter

Issue date: 10/9/08 Section: Letters to the Editor

Voting information for students

The Office of the Secretary of State reports that it is busy conducting statewide voter outreach in its effort to keep Minnesota number one in elections. Secretary Ritchie has set a goal this year of "80 in '08"-80 percent turnout of eligible voters in the Nov. 4 general election.


Where to Vote?

Polling place locations are based on a voter's current address. Students will not necessarily vote at an on-campus polling place. To find a polling location, voters should visit www.sos.state.mn.us or contact their county auditor's office.


Register to Vote on Election Day

Eligible Minnesota voters may register on Election Day by providing proof of residence. Options include a student photo ID if the college or university has provided a student housing list; a photo ID with a utility bill in the voter's name showing the voter's current address; a registered voter from the precinct who can vouch for the voter; or a Minnesota driver's license, permit, state ID or receipt with the voter's current address.



Absentee Voting

Students may register to vote using either their address at school or parent's home/non-school address depending on which they consider to be their residence. (It is illegal to vote in both places.) Students voting with a non-school address should consider voting by absentee ballot. Persons may apply for an absentee ballot even if they are not registered to vote at their current address. Absentee ballot applications are available at county auditors' offices or at www.sos.state.mn.us.

Local election officials mail absentee ballots to voters within a day or two of receiving absentee ballot applications. Alternatively, voters may cast an absentee ballot in person at their county auditor's office during the 30 days before the election.


Dennis Smith, Communications Project Manager, MN Office of the Secretary of State

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools