David Michel

Early voting starts in less than two weeks as folks head to the polls in the 2024 presidential primary. This was all made possible by the Connecticut General Assembly last session after a wide majority of Connecticut voters approved a state Constitutional amendment in 2022.

Early voting will provide you - and voters across the state - with more flexibility and access to cast your vote with the confidence that your voice is heard and your civic duty is fulfilled, while avoiding large crowds and scheduling conflicts.

By taking part in early voting in March, you will help state election officials understand our strengths and needs ahead of the general election in November when turnout is much greater.

Anticipating that you may have questions about this new process, I hope the guide below will be helpful in providing information to answer them.

Here's what you need to know:

When is early voting?

For the April 2 presidential preference primary election, early voting will take place from 10:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. on March 26, 27, 28, and 30 on the fourth floor of the Stamford Government Center on Washington Boulevard. Due to Good Friday and Easter, there will be no early voting Friday, March 29 or Sunday, March 31.

Early voting for the August 13 primary elections will take place between August 5 and August 11.

Early voting for the November 5 general election will take place between October 21 to November 3.

Can I vote by absentee ballot?

If you need to vote by absentee ballot, please click here to download the absentee ballot application or Apply for an Absentee Ballot online (must have a CT driver’s license).

You can also contact the Town Clerk’s office at townclerk@stamfordct.gov or call (203) 977-5280 to request an application.

For more detailed information click here.

When filling out the application, make sure to note the following:

• Section I – Fill out your contact information
• Section II – Delivery address if it’s different than your registered address
• Section III – A) Primary, B) April 2, 2024
• Section IV – Reason you are needing an absentee ballot (learn more here about eligibility)
• Section VI – Sign and date the application

Once complete return it via one of the three options below:

• Place it in a drop box at the Government Center parking garage (888 Washington Boulevard) or the Harry Bennett Library next to the outdoor book drop (115 Vine Road).
• Bring your application to the Town Clerk’s office Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. - 3:30 P.M. and fill out a ballot and vote.
• Mail your completed and signed application to: Town Clerk – 888 Washington Blvd., Stamford, CT 06901

Once the Town Clerk receives your application, you will be sent an absentee ballot. As soon as it arrives, fill out your ballot and vote! Place your ballot in the inner envelope, sign the inner envelope, place the inner envelope in the outer envelope, and return it via the drop box or mail it back to the Town Clerk’s office. Your absentee ballot MUST BE RECEIVED by the Town Clerk no later than 8:00 P.M. on Election Day, April 2. 

Are there deadlines to be aware of?

Monday, March 25 at noon is the deadline to register with a political party to vote in the early voting period for the presidential preference primary.

Monday, April 1 at noon is the deadline for registering in person with your registrar of voters or town clerk to vote on April 2, and for unaffiliated voters to enroll in a party for in-person voting.

If you are not yet registered to vote, file your registration application with your town's registrar of voters by noon on the business day before the day you want to vote, or click here to register.

Voting is one of our country's most privileged and fundamental rights, and your participation is crucial in shaping the future. Let’s amplify the impact of our collective voice – start voting early!

Please don't hesitate to reach out to my office with any further questions on this new and exciting initiative!