The 2018 midterm elections are right around the corner, November 6th to be exact. But before you cast your vote, there is a lot of information to know; from who is running for office and what propositions are up for vote, to how you register and ultimately submit your vote. With an unprecedented number of questions and candidates on the ballot this year, it is important to know what to expect before you vote.
Who is running for office?
The Utah elections office is the best way to quickly find information about the candidates. Click here for a complete list of 2018 candidate filings, their party affiliation and district number. You may also find more election information here, including individual ballots.
Those running for office include prospective national senators and representatives, state legislators, county officials, state executive officials and some State School Board positions. It is important to know what district you live in. This will determine which candidates you will research and who you will be voting for. A total of 378 individuals have filed to run for elected office. Click here for an interactive district map.
How do I register?
You can register via mail, online, or in person and for the first time this year, at your polling place. To register online, click here. If you change any of your personal voter information while registering online, you may need to send in paper forms to the county clerk’s office.
When is the last day to register to vote?
The last day to register by mailing in a registration form has passed. The last day to register to vote in person, online or at your county clerk’s office is October 30, 2018.
When will mail in ballots be sent to voters?
All mail-in ballots will begin to be sent out starting October 8, 2018 and will continue to be sent to all who register before the October 30th registration deadline.
When is my mail in ballot due?
Make sure your ballot is postmarked on or before November 5, 2018. That is the day before Election Day. If you forget, you can always drop off your ballot on Election Day at your county clerk’s office, a polling location, or a ballot drop box.
How long are polling locations open?
Early voting locations are open from October 23 through November 2. On the day of the general election, polling locations are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. If you are still in line after 8:00 p.m., it is required that you are given the opportunity to vote.
Do I need to bring anything when I vote?
Yes. You need to bring a valid form of a government issued identification that includes your name and photograph, or two forms of identification that bear your name and address. Learn more about identification requirements here.
How do I vote with an absentee ballot?
The deadline to request an absentee ballot has already passed, although you can contact your county clerk’s office to see if they are willing to send out an absentee ballot. If you have already requested an absentee ballot, you will receive the ballot by the Thursday before Election Day. You must have the absentee ballot postmarked the day before the election.
