Ramsey County is set to offer early voting for the upcoming presidential primary, giving voters the chance to skip the election-day queues. According to the county's official website, residents can head to one of three designated locations from Feb. 16 through March 4 to cast their vote ahead of the March 5 showdown. The early voting initiative provides flexibility, allowing voters to visit any site irrespective of their city of residence.

The decision to open early voting centers is a strategic move to alleviate the stress often experienced on election day. Voters will be able hastily to cast their ballots during weekdays and select Saturdays at times that vary by location. The Plato Building will serve as a central point for early voters, beginning operations on Jan. 19 and closing on March 4, excluding President's Day. Hours during the weekday are set from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., extending one hour longer on the final day of early voting.

Additional sites at the Ramsey County Libraries in Roseville and Shoreview will also welcome voters, beginning Feb. 16 with the weekday hours set from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., accommodating weekend voters on March 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and ending on March 4 with the same weekday hours. Accessibility is a priority; both the Plato Building and Ramsey County Library in Roseville will provide Hmong and Somali language translation assistance for those in need.

For those interested in turnout statistics, Ramsey County promises daily updates on voter participation during the early and absentee voting periods. Such information can be readily accessed through the Open Ramsey County platform. In anticipation of high voter engagement, the county seeks to ensure a seamless process, allowing citizens effortlessly to exercise their right to vote.

For more detailed information on locations, specific hours, and the primary itself, residents are encouraged to refer to the Minnesota Secretary of State page.