The state’s Office of Elections conducted its final logic and accuracy test on Saturday in preparation for the general election on Nov. 5. Scott Nago, Chief Elections Officer, explained that observers from different political parties ensure that the system is counting properly. Most voters should have received a mail-in ballot, which can be marked with a blue or black pen, signed, and either dropped in an official drop box or mailed in before Nov. 5.
There are security features in place to ensure the legitimacy of ballots, including signature verification and the ability to track your ballot on the state elections website. Voter service centers statewide will open on Oct. 22, allowing voters to cast their ballots before Election Day. Results will not be released until after the last voter has cast their vote at a voter service center.
The 2020 general election is expected to have a higher voter turnout than the primary election in August, with historical turnout rates being 70% in 2020, 58% in 2016, 62% in 2012, and 66% in 2008. Each county also has charter amendments on the ballot, covering topics such as ocean safety, same-sex marriage, council salaries, and property taxes for a climate resiliency fund.
All ballots must be received by the county election division by 7 p.m. on Election Day, with voter centers available for those who did not receive a ballot or need to register to vote. Voters are encouraged not to wait until the last minute to cast their ballots, as lines may be long. For more information and news about Hawaii’s election process, download the KHON2 app for iOS or Android.
Source
Photo credit www.khon2.com