Early voting begins: 2024 ballots mailed across the US
- Mail-in ballots for the 2024 election are being sent out, with most states starting later in September or October.
- North Carolina faced delays in its mail-in voting process due to court rulings requiring reprinting of ballots.
- Voter participation methods may shift in 2024, with more individuals likely to vote in person rather than by mail.
The process of mail-in voting for the upcoming 2024 election is officially starting, with ballots being mailed out across various states. However, North Carolina has encountered delays due to court decisions mandating that ballots be reprinted, excluding Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has suspended his campaign. This situation highlights the complexities and legal challenges surrounding the voting process in different states. Most states will not begin mailing ballots until later in September or October, with military and overseas voters receiving their ballots by September 21. Each state has its own specific rules and deadlines for requesting and returning mail-in ballots, which can lead to confusion among voters. For instance, some states require that mail ballots be received by election officials before polls close, while others accept ballots postmarked by Election Day. In the 2020 election, many voters opted for early or mail-in voting due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but this trend may shift in 2024. With the pandemic's impact lessening, a larger proportion of voters may choose to cast their ballots in person. This change could be influenced by the political climate and previous statements made by political figures regarding mail-in voting. As voters prepare for the election, it is crucial to understand the requirements for mail-in ballots, such as signature verification and identification rules, which vary by state. Ensuring that ballots are properly completed and submitted on time will be essential for voter participation and the integrity of the election process.