Maine takes voting so seriously that its state constitution guarantees every Mainer the right to vote, including prisoners, and even bars authorities from arresting voters going to and from the polls except in cases of treason, felony or breach of peace.
There is no requirement to register to vote ahead of the Nov. 8 election, but doing so ahead of time makes it easier on the people already straining to keep the polls running efficiently. So register beforehand at the town or city clerk’s office, if you can.
When you register or the first time you go to the polls, bring a Maine driver’s license, state ID card or current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or government document that shows your name and address. If you lack proof of your address or identity, you can still vote but you may have to prove later that your ballot is valid.
In addition to showing up at the polls, Mainers can vote early in-person or send in a form for an absentee ballot to vote by mail. Don’t dally if you want to make sure your ballot reaches the clerk before Election Day. For information on absentee ballots contact your town or city clerk. Or, go to https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/voter-info/absent.html.
If you’re not sure where to vote, you can look it up online at maine.gov/portal/government/edemocracy/voter_lookup.php.
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