Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate extended the absentee voting period to 40 days for Iowans who choose to vote by mail in the June 2 primary election.

As a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Pate encourages Iowans to cast ballots by mail. The change allows voters more time to mail ballots and county auditors a longer window for processing ballots.

Absentee balloting reduces the risk of community spread of the COVID-19 virus, noted Pate. 

Polling places for those who prefer casting ballots in-person on Election Day will still be available. However, some polling locations are likely to be combined. 

Voters should check with the county auditor’s office regarding their correct voting location on Election Day.   

Curbside voting, as always, is an option for citizens with disabilities and those who might have difficulty entering a polling place.

This option will also be available in the June primary to voters who are in the high-risk population for the coronavirus. 

The absentee voting period for mailed ballots for the June 2 primary starts April 23 and ends May 22. However, voters may submit an absentee ballot request immediately. 

In Washington County, voters must complete and mail an absentee ballot request to the Washington County Auditor, P.O. Box 889, Washington IA 52353. 

Absentee ballot request forms can be downloaded from the Iowa Secretary of State’s website, the Washington County website or by contacting the auditor’s office.