Voters in San Francisco should start checking their mailboxes as the Department of Elections has begun distributing nearly half a million vote-by-mail (VBM) ballot packets for the forthcoming March 5 election. As reported earlier today, each packet sent through the USPS contains a two-card ballot, a prepaid return envelope, instructions on voting, and an "I Voted" sticker to flaunt after fulfilling your civic duty.
Starting February 5, voters will also have access to the City's accessible vote-by-mail system (AVBM), which enables the download and marking of ballots using assistive technologies. As the San Francisco government news release states, this should be a boon for those requiring screen-readers or personal assistive devices such as a head-pointer or sip and puff. Ballots tailored to voters' political affiliations, or the lack thereof, are included, offering a streamlined path straight to their political preferences.
San Francisco's no-party preference voters, some of whom may still need to choose a crossover ballot from either the American Independent, Democratic, or Libertarian parties, must act quickly. The government announcement encourages these voters to submit their requests using various methods listed on the official elections website, by phone, or a simple text message. The Department ensures that once the request is lodged, typically turning around within two business days, the correct ballot is promptly in the mail.
"I encourage every voter to review the ballot in their vote-by-mail packet to make sure it includes their preferred presidential candidate," said Director John Arntz, emphasizing the need for voters to ensure their ballots correctly reflect their choice. In a move to ramp up voter support, Arntz highlights, through the San Francisco government's news release, the convenience offered to voters, including the ability to request a replacement ballot all the way up to Election Day. Furthermore, trained multilingual staff will be on hand to assist voters via various channels including in person at City Hall.
For voters eager to keep an eye on their ballot's journey, the "Track My Ballot" feature offers peace of mind. By visiting the dedicated tab on the elections website, signing up for notifications, or reaching out directly to the Department of Elections, San Franciscans can witness their democratic participation in real-time, from the moment the ballot leaves the mailing facility to when it's officially tallied. For those seeking additional details on the upcoming election, a click to the official election page or a call to the Department will populate them with all the knowledge needed to vote informed and with confidence.
