There are about six weeks left before the midterm elections in the United States, but in some states early voting begins as early as September. So, on Friday, September 18, the election process starts in Virginia, according to the website of the State Department of Elections.
In-person early voting in Virginia continues through October 31. Voting will be possible on weekdays, and in some districts, also on designated Saturdays.
Voter registration and registration updates will continue until October 23. After this date, you will also be able to register in person until the main election day on November 3. You must also submit an application to vote by mail by October 23.
The most competitive race in Virginia in the current election cycle is for the state House of Representatives. Democrats expect to compete for two mandates – in the 1st and 2nd electoral districts. In the 1st District, Republicans still hold the advantage, while Inside Elections analysts classify the race in the 2nd District as an election with no clear favorite.
In the 2nd District, Republican incumbent Rep. Jen Kiggans, who is running for reelection, is in a nearly even race with Democratic challenger Elaine Luria.
In other states
In South Dakota, Minnesota and Idaho, voters can request an in-person absentee voting starting Friday. In this format, a voter goes to the polling station, receives a paper ballot, fills it out on the spot and places it in the absentee ballot box.
Full early voting begins Oct. 16 in Minnesota and Oct. 13 in Idaho. In Illinois, it starts on September 24, 40 days before Election Day.
This week, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected President Donald Trump's attempt to restrict mail-in voting. The head of the White House has repeatedly stated that mail voting is a “corrupt” and “anti-democratic” method, and also argued that the United States is the only country where this form of ballot submission is allowed. Despite criticism of mail-in elections, the president himself has cast ballots this way multiple times in Florida.
According to the Associated Press (AP), voting rights organizations are recommending that citizens send their ballots in advance this year. This includes concerns that recent changes to the U.S. Postal Service could lead to delays in ballot processing and postmarking.
