Ahead of runoffs for two legislative seats and a list of hyperlocal positions happening in Mississippi on Dec. 2, in-person and mail-in absentee voting is now open to eligible residents.
General races were held earlier this month for 17 seats at the state capitol, most of which spurred from a federal order for the state to redraw districts that were diluting Black voting power. Outright winners were announced in every race but Senate District 24 and Senate District 26. Other races heading to a runoff include, but are not limited to, Hinds County coroner, Rankin County District 2 supervisor, and Noxubee County sheriff.
Those looking to vote absentee are encouraged to utilize the Mississippi Secretary of State’s Y’all Vote website, which includes answers to frequently asked questions, an eligibility verification tool, a step-by-step guide on how to vote absentee, and sample ballots based on a voter’s address. Eligible reasons for absentee voting include being out of town on Election Day, being 65 years or older, or living with a disability.
Circuit clerk offices are from now until Saturday, Nov. 29, during normal business hours for in-person absentee voters. Saturday voting will be open from 8 a.m. until noon on Nov. 22 and Nov. 29.
The mail-in absentee process is also open. For those voting by mail, ballots must be postmarked on or before the election date of Dec 2. Day-of voters can visit their local polling site any time between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Polling locations can be verified here.