Rhode Islanders Encouraged To Vote By Mail This Week

CRANSTON, RI — Rhode Island Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea is reminding voters to submit their mail ballots this week, ahead of the June 2 primary election. All voters who completed a mail ballot application before the May 19 deadline should receive their ballots by Wednesday.

"Voting from home is the safe and secure way to make your voice heard during the COVID-19 pandemic," Gorbea said. "Before filling out your mail ballot, please read the instructions carefully. And don’t wait to drop your completed ballot in the mail! Be sure to return it immediately."

To be counted, all mail ballots must be received by the Board of Elections by 8 p.m. on June 2. Ballots can be returned in the included, postage-paid envelope or dropped off by hand.

Voters who have not yet received their ballot can check the status online. Those who do not receive a ballot by Wednesday can reach out to the department's elections division at 401-222-2340 or elections@sos.ri.gov.

In the primary election, voters will be choosing their preference for the Democratic or Republican presidential candidates, as well as selecting delegates for their party's national convention.

Anyone who missed the deadline for a mail ballot but still wants to vote by mail can do so with an emergency mail ballot. Reach out to your local board of canvassers for more information.

The June 2 election will be conducted primarily by mail. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, fewer polling places will be open than in a traditional election. Voters who wish to cast their ballot in person are asked to confirm their polling place and prepare to follow social distancing rules. More information about the election is available on the Secretary of State's website.