All eyes in the nation will be focused on Iowa next week as the Democrats caucus to begin the process of nominating a  candidate to represent them in the 2020 election. This first-in-the-nation status has come under increasing scrutiny in recent years as many feel the state is not very representative of the country as a whole. 

And besides, why should Iowans they have all the fun? 

Well, you can get in on the action right alongside citizens of the Hawkeye state. 

The New Bedford Election Commission has announced that absentee ballots for the March 3, 2020 presidential primary election are now available through the Election Commission Office at New Bedford City Hall.

Any registered voter unable to get to the polls on Election Day may vote by absentee ballot at the Election Commission Office during regular office hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., or may request that an absentee ballot application be mailed to their home address. Parents or family members can apply for an absentee ballot on behalf of their children attending out-of-city colleges and universities.

Absentee ballots may be requested up until 12 noon on Monday, March 2, 2020.

In addition, to allow voters to cast an absentee ballot, the City of New Bedford Election Office will open on Saturday, February 29, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. until 12 noon. 

In the presidential primary election on March 3, voters may cast their vote for presidential preference, state committeeman and state committeewoman, and ward committees. On Election Day, polls will be open as usual from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

Any resident who is uncertain about their voting status, designated polling location, has changed their address since the last election, or who wishes to request an absentee ballot, should contact the Election Commission Office at 508-979-1420.

Join the party (small “p”) and get out and vote!