Milford Launches First Day of Connecticut's New No-Excuse Absentee Voting for the 2026 Democratic Primary

MILFORD, Conn. — July 21, 2026 — Today marks a historic milestone for Connecticut elections as voters participate in the first Democratic Primary under the state's new no-excuse absentee voting law, allowing any eligible voter to request and vote by absentee ballot without providing a qualifying reason.

Milford's approximately 12,000 registered Democrats are eligible to participate in this year's Democratic Primary.

Voters will cast ballots in:

• The statewide Democratic Primary for Governor, and
• The 118th State Representative District Democratic Primary.

The first day of absentee voting has already seen a strong response from Milford voters.

As of today:

• 131 absentee ballot applications have been received.
• 127 absentee ballots have been issued and mailed to voters.
• 4 voters have chosen to vote in person at the City Clerk's Office after requesting their absentee ballots.

"This is an important milestone in Connecticut's election history," said City Clerk Pete Smith. "For the first time, every eligible voter has the opportunity to vote by absentee ballot without needing a statutory excuse. Our office is committed to making the voting process accessible, secure, and convenient for every Milford voter."

Voters who wish to request an absentee ballot may do so through the Connecticut Online Absentee Ballot Request Portal or by submitting an application to the Milford City Clerk's Office.

Completed absentee ballots may be:

• Returned by mail;
• Delivered to the City Clerk's Office; or
• Deposited in one of Milford's secure absentee ballot drop boxes.

The Democratic Primary will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, with all absentee ballots required to be received by the close of polls on Election Day in accordance with Connecticut law.

For additional election information, contact the Milford City Clerk's Office at (203) 783-3210 or visit the City Clerk’s webpage.