10/27/2024
I am posting this again as there are still people reaching out, confused and very untrusting of this situation. First, let me apologize. This should have never happened. And for a party that constantly talks about disenfranchising voters, they did one hell of a job at it this year.
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I have been having a lot of conversations round the Absentee Ballots sent out by the Town Clerk's office and the failure to insert the explanatory text in at least 700 ballots.
People are confused. Some are not returning their ballots because they think the original ballot is void and they have to wait for a second ballot. Some are only filling out the question part because they filled out the rest in the original ballot they already sent back.
To say this was a colossal failure is an understatement.
Even when the second ballot was sent out it does not explicitly say you must refill out the entire ballot. It is a failed incomplete attempt to fix this mess.
But yes, lets make this the norm. 🤦♀️ These are the things you should know based on the conversations I have had.
1. Not everyone will receive a second ballot. Apparently even if you live in the same household and received your original ballot at the same time.
2. The ballots are exactly the same. The difference is one has an extra sheet of paper with explanatory text and one does not. Fill out whatever ballot you have and if you have questions ask!
3. If you are at all feeling unsure about anything surrounding this process, please try to use early voting at the library or vote on election day. (Early voting times and dates are below). I did and I am perfectly satisfied with the process and security of my vote even though I believe the State of Connecticut rushed this and was not fully prepared for the turn out.
If you choose this route, make sure you bring your ID.
4. If you filled out both ballots but only partially on each, go to Town Hall, have them voided and fill out a complete and new ballot. You have a right to have your ballot casted correctly.
5. Most of all, ask questions, reach out to the proper people. Do not get discouraged and do not let any of this confusion keep you from being heard.
I can assure you, once your vote is cast, it is safe, secure and anonymous.
