Early Voting Now Open
Election officials open absentee voting and sample ballots ahead of upcoming local elections.
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Key Points
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South Africa’s special-vote eligibility includes voters who will be outside their voting district on election day because of qualifying circumstances, such as essential work.
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South African voters can check their registration and voting-station details by sending their ID number by SMS to 32810, while information about voting-station special votes is available via SMS to 32249; the IEC also lists a call centre and WhatsApp contact for assistance.
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In South Dakota, Lincoln County Auditor Sheri Lund estimated that turnout could reach about 80% in the general election, compared with roughly 30% in a typical primary, because the general election is open to all voters rather than being a closed primary.
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The South Dakota ballot includes races for governor, U.S. House, U.S. Senate, attorney general and state treasurer, along with two constitutional amendments and county-level offices.
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A South Dakota voter, Tammy Smith, said she voted early both to finish the task and because unpredictable weather could affect her ability to vote on Election Day.
Election officials across multiple states and countries are opening doors for early voting and ballot preparation ahead of upcoming elections. South African Electoral Commission is accepting applications for special votes through October 12 at 5 p.m. for the November 4 local government elections, while South Dakota absentee voting has already begun at county auditor offices. Voters can now access sample ballots online to review races and measures before casting their ballots.
South Africa Opens Early and Home Voting for November Elections
The Electoral Commission of South Africa is letting voters apply for special votes if they cannot reach their polling station on November 4. Eligible voters include those working essential jobs or traveling outside their voting district. Voters can check their registration by texting their ID number to 32810, or call the help line for assistance.
Special voting options include early in-person casting or requesting a home visit. The IEC also offers WhatsApp support at 32249 for questions about voting-station locations. Applications must arrive by October 12 at 5 p.m. local time.
South Dakota Expects Record Turnout in General Election
South Dakota absentee voting is underway, with voters mailing ballots or voting in person at county auditor offices. Lincoln County Auditor Sheri Lund predicts turnout could reach 80% in the general election, compared with 30% in typical primaries. The general election includes all voters, whereas primaries are limited to party members.
The ballot covers governor, U.S. House, U.S. Senate, attorney general, and state treasurer races. Voters will also decide two constitutional amendments and county-level offices. Early voter Tammy Smith said she cast her ballot early to avoid unpredictable weather on Election Day.
Texas and Other States Provide Online Sample Ballots
Voters in Texas's Refugio County can now review precinct-specific sample ballots on the county elections website. First, voters enter their information into the state's My Voter Portal to find their precinct number. Sample ballots show exactly what races and measures will appear on Election Day.
Election offices nationwide are making sample ballots available online so voters can prepare before voting. This helps voters research candidates and measures in advance. Many county auditor offices also provide printed sample ballots for those without internet access.
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