As the 2020 elections approach, many Americans are considering alternative methods of voting due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. One popular option is voting by mail, also known as absentee voting. In Travis County, Texas, this process has been in place for years and has become even more relevant in light of current events.
The Importance of Voting in Travis County
Travis County is located in central Texas and is home to the state capital, Austin. With a population of over 1.2 million people, it is the fifth most populous county in Texas.As such, it plays a significant role in state and national elections. In recent years, Travis County has seen a surge in voter turnout, with over 60% of registered voters participating in the 2018 midterm elections. This trend is expected to continue in the upcoming 2020 elections, making it crucial for residents to understand the process of voting by mail.
The Process of Voting by Mail
Before diving into the specifics of voting by mail in Travis County, it's essential to understand who is eligible to vote by mail. According to the Texas Secretary of State's office, individuals who are 65 years or older, disabled, out of the county during early voting and election day, or confined in jail but eligible to vote are all eligible to vote by mail. If you fall into one of these categories, you can request a mail-in ballot from the Travis County Elections Division. The request can be made online or by filling out a paper application and mailing it to the division.The deadline to request a ballot for the November 3rd election is October 23rd. Once your request is received and approved, you will receive your ballot in the mail. It's essential to carefully read and follow the instructions included with the ballot to ensure your vote is counted. You will also need to provide a valid form of identification when returning your ballot. After completing your ballot, you can return it by mail or drop it off at any early voting location in Travis County. If you choose to mail it, it must be postmarked by Election Day and received by the county no later than 5 pm on November 4th.
If you opt to drop it off, you can do so during early voting hours or on Election Day.
The Benefits of Voting by Mail
Voting by mail offers several benefits for residents of Travis County. First and foremost, it allows individuals who may have difficulty physically getting to a polling location to still exercise their right to vote. This includes those who are elderly, disabled, or out of the county during the election period.Additionally, voting by mail can save time and reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. With the ongoing pandemic, many people are hesitant to stand in long lines at polling locations. By voting by mail, individuals can avoid potential exposure while still participating in the democratic process.Common Concerns and Misconceptions
Despite the benefits of voting by mail, there are some common concerns and misconceptions surrounding the process.One of the most significant concerns is voter fraud. However, according to the Brennan Center for Justice, voter fraud is incredibly rare in all forms of voting, including voting by mail. Another misconception is that voting by mail is only available for those who are unable to physically make it to a polling location. While this is one of the eligibility requirements, anyone can request a mail-in ballot in Texas without providing a reason. Some individuals also worry that their vote may not be counted if they choose to vote by mail. However, the Travis County Elections Division has strict procedures in place to ensure the integrity of mail-in ballots.
Each ballot is verified and counted by a bipartisan team, and any discrepancies are resolved before the final count.
