August 10 Primary Election: Voter Basics

Published 08-10-2010

August 10 Primary Election Basics from the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits

What is a primary and why is it important?
Think of the primary like the playoffs—it’s the first step in determining who will be on the ballot in the general election. By voting in the primary, you help determine who will make important decisions about jobs, schools, and community development. Your community needs you – go vote!

How do I vote?
If you are not registered you can register on election day. Click here for “how to” information about same day voter registration.

Where do I vote?
To find your polling place, as well as a sample ballot and a list of candidates who will be on your ballot on August 10, visit the Polling Place Finder within Secretary of State’s Website.

What is on my ballot?
Visit the League of Women Voters Minnesota’s 2010 Voter Guide to find out more about the candidates on your ballot, including a listing of candidate forums in your area. If you are interested in the candidates themselves- go to their websites. MCDHH has made sure that all candidates for Governor with online videos have captioned their ads.

Where do I learn more voter accessibility?
The Secretary of State’s website includes information about polling place and ballot accessibility, such as the AutoMARK ballot marking device to assist voters who are Blind.

What if I will be on vacation on August 10?
Minnesota voters are able to vote absentee either by mail or in person for one of the following reasons:

• Absence from the precinct (away from home)
• Illness or disability
• Serving as an election judge in another precinct
• Religious discipline

To vote absentee by mail, visit the Secretary of State’s website to download and print an absentee ballot application, or contact your county auditor or municipal clerk to ask for one. Voters can vote absentee in person during normal business hours at their county auditors’ offices and some city clerks’ offices.