While the November elections typically get most of the political season focus, Primary Day in Massachusetts is coming up. And in a state with roughly three times as many registered Democrats as Republicans, primaries can determine some election contests.
If you want to participate, the deadline to register to vote in this year’s primaries is coming up — it’s Saturday, Aug. 27. Here’s what you need to know about this year’s primary elections:
When is Primary Election Day?
Massachusetts’ statewide primary election is on Sept. 6, 2022. The deadline to register to vote in this year’s primaries is Saturday, Aug. 27.
Who is on the ballot?
Voters will pick candidates for the statewide elected offices: governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, treasurer and auditor, and members of the state Senate and state House. The primary elections will also decide candidates for the nine U.S. House seats in Massachusetts. Voters will also vote on a number of local positions, like candidates for Bristol County Sheriff.
The Massachusetts secretary of the commonwealth’s office has a list of candidates on the ballot.
Can I vote in either party’s primary?
If you’re enrolled with a party, you can only vote in that party’s primary. You can change your enrollment status by notifying your local election official in writing at least 20 days before an election.
If you’re not enrolled in a political party, you can choose either party’s ballot and will remain unenrolled in either party.
How do I register to vote?
You can register to vote online, by mail or in person.
Online: Visit the state’s Online Voter Registration System on the secretary of the commonwealth’s website. You’ll need a Massachusetts driver’s license or state ID card.
By mail: Download the voter registration form from the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website, fill it out and deliver it to your local election official. Click here to find more information about your local election office.
In person: You can register to vote in-person at any local election office or at the secretary of the commonwealth’s office, as well as at some public agencies.
You may already be registered to vote if you’ve interacted with the state Registry of Motor Vehicles, MassHealth or the Commonwealth Health Connector, unless you opted out. You can check your registration status here.
Can I vote by mail?
Yes. Massachusetts voters can now vote early by mail without needing to provide a reason. But there are two deadlines you need to know.
1. You must request your mail-in ballot in writing at least 5 days before Election Day. The deadline to request a mail ballot for this year’s primary elections is Aug. 29.
In 2022, the secretary of the commonwealth says vote-by-mail applications should have been mailed in July to every voter who hadn’t already requested a mail-in ballot. You can also download the application from the secretary of the commonwealth’s website.
2. Your ballot must reach your local election office by 8 p.m. on Election Day in order to be counted. The postal service recommends allowing up to 7 days for mail delivery, so election officials recommend applying and returning your mail-in ballot as early as possible.
It’s important to note that mail ballots cannot be dropped off at polling places on Election Day.
Find more information and start the process on the secretary of the commonwealth’s website.
Can I vote in person before Primary Election Day?
You can vote early in person Aug. 27-Sept 2.
Each town sets its own early voting locations and schedules. Every community is required to offer weekend early voting.
Check with your local election office for details.
When is the deadline to register for the general election?
The general election is coming up on Nov. 8. The deadline to register to vote is Oct. 29.
