Last week to preregister to vote

WASHINGTON — Anyone who wants to cast a ballot on Election Day Nov. 8 has the rest of this week to preregister to vote before the Oct. 24 deadline at 5 p.m.

While state law allows same-day polling places registration for residents bringing proof of both identity and residency, Washington County Auditor Dan Widmer encouraged those interested in voting to register beforehand.

“With the convenience of being able to register and vote at the polls comes potential confusion and check-in backlog,” he said in a news release. “Voter registration forms can be obtained or online registrations filled out through our website, or voters may register directly at the Washington County Auditor’s Office.”

The worry-free postmark deadline is Oct. 19 according to that news release, meaning residents who want to preregister are encouraged to do so in-person if the mail isn’t en route by Wednesday.

Those who are already registered to vote in the county do not need to preregister, but those registered outside of Washington County need to update their registration before they can cast a ballot there.

Those with questions can contact the Auditor’s office at 319-653-7717. The office is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays at the Washington County Courthouse, although hours will extend until 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 24.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com