With the mid-term election right around the corner, the ACLU of Montana is working to ensure that all eligible voters can exercise their fundamental right to vote.
Last week, we sent a letter to every election administrator in the state, reminding them that they have a responsibility to ensure that our elections are free and fair. In particular, we pointed out that the Satellite Election Offices serving remote communities in Indian Country are critical access points for many Indigenous people who would otherwise need to travel long distances (sometimes more than 100 miles) just to get to the polls. Satellite Election Offices must generally follow the same rules as other polling places.
We reminded county officials of their obligation to do the following:
• Identify and publicize the day and times the polling place will be open.
• Open and close on time and remain open during the entire time they have publicized.
• Host late registration for qualified voters.
• Replace ballots for voters who may have destroyed, spoiled, lost, or not received their ballot.
• Provide enough ballots for those voters who choose to vote early, those who use late registration, and those who request replacement ballots.
We put the state on notice. And, from now until election day, we will work with our partners monitoring the polls to ensure that nobody is denied their fundamental right to vote.
You Can Help!
- Sign up to be a poll watcher: Poll watchers help to ensure that elections are administered smoothly and lawfully. Sign up with one of our partner organizations to be a poll watcher.
- Report voter suppression: If you are a victim or witness to voter suppression or intimidation of any kind, our staff and volunteer attorneys are on standby to answer your questions. Call 406-204-0287.
Are You Ready for Election Day?
If you have questions about your registration status, where and when you can vote, what documentation you will need to provide, or more, Election Protection has the answers. You can also call 866-OUR-VOTE.
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