INDIANAPOLIS (April 28, 2016) — Voters and poll workers are gearing up for the Primary Election, which is just days away on Tuesday, May 3rd. To help voters prepare, here are some reminders of what you need to know before you go to the polls.
- You cannot bring election materials inside a polling location.
- You cannot wear items into a polling location supporting or opposing a candidate or issue.
- You cannot comment on another voter’s support of a candidate or issue inside of a polling location.
- You are required to bring a photo ID.
- This is a Primary Election so voters will have to choose a Democrat or Republican ballot. Indiana has an open primary; voters are not bound to choose one ballot or the other.
“I also encourage all voters to research the candidates on their ballot before going to the polls,” Secretary Lawson said. “You can find out who is on your ballot at Indianavoters.com or on the Indiana Voters app. An informed electorate is the key to democracy.”
If citizens have issues on or leading up to Election Day, they are encouraged to contact the Secretary of State’s office. Hoosier voters can file complaints with the Secretary of State’s office regarding polling place accessibility or concerns regarding possible fraudulent actives. To file a complaint or report an issue, voters may call 1-866-IN1-VOTE (1-866-461-8683). Secretary of State staff are on hand during business hours, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday- Friday as well as 6:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time on Election Day.
Hoosiers may also complete the Indiana Voter Fraud and Accessibility Grievance affidavit form, which is located on the Secretary of State website at http://www.in.gov/sos/elections/2653.htm. Those who submit this form are advised to have it notarized in order to assist investigators and prosecutors, before filing it with the Secretary of State’s office.
The Secretary of State’s office will also be implementing an Election Day Response Team. Several Special Secretary of State Deputies will be appointed for the purpose of responding to any election related issues, spot-checking polling locations for accessibility and integrity in the process. If you believe there is an issue and want to notify the special deputies serving on the response team, please contact 1-866-IN1-VOTE (1-866-461-8683).
In addition, any voters who have requested an absentee by mail ballot must return those ballots to their county clerk by noon on Tuesday, May 3rd.
