NH voting 101: You asked, we answered

In case you haven’t seen it yet, our multimedia reporter Mrinali Dhembla has launched a a new Q&A series on Instagram. Every Tuesday, she’s tackling all your burning questions about voting in New Hampshire. So, pop over to IG and ask away. Here are some of the top questions we’ve gotten so far:

Can I wear a campaign T-shirt or button when I vote?

No. You can’t wear a button or T-shirt supporting a particular candidate within 10 feet of a polling place in NH. Check this state-by-state guide to electioneering laws to ensure your outfit is legally good to go.

Am I allowed to take a picture of my ballot? Am I allowed to post it online?

Yes! Take selfies all you want. There was actually a court case about this.

What does voting “down ballot” mean?

It means voting for the local politicians—like state representatives, senators, executive council members, etc. Each year, at least a third of voters don’t bother to fill out the entire ballot. Don’t be one of them! The people you vote for down ballot have a direct impact on your day-to-day life.

What ID should I bring to the polls? 

Any photo ID, like a driver’s license, a passport, or a NH student ID card will work.

I turn 18 at the end of October, can I still vote? 

100% yes! You can register when you turn 18—and if you need to, you can register on Election Day, Nov. 5!

Do I have to declare party affiliation to vote on Nov. 5?

Nope. It doesn’t matter if you’re a Republican, Independent, or Democrat for the general election. Everyone gets the same ballot.

When is the voter registration deadline?

It’s 6-13 days before the election. Yes, that might sound confusing. The actual last day varies by town. So, it’s best to register as soon as you can. But if you can’t, that’s OK. NH is one of a handful of states where you can register on the day of the election.

Can I request an absentee/ mail-in ballot online?

No. You have to go to your local town clerk’s office to do that. And you have to meet certain qualifications. 

If an voter votes by mail, then dies before the election, does the ballot still count?

No, the ballot no longer counts.

When does NH start processing mail-in ballots?

NH is one of seven states that waits until Election Day to start processing mail in ballots.

I can’t return by mail-in ballot. Can someone else do it for me? 

Yes. You can ask a family member to do that for you. If the voter lives at a residential care facility, a staff member can return the ballot, or someone providing assistance to the voter can do it. The person who delivers it must complete a form and present a government-issued photo ID.

Can you tell me where the governor candidates stand on legalizing marijuana? 

Joyce Craig supports legalizing, and promises to expunge cannabis charges. Kelly Ayotte’s stance on marijuana legalization is a hard “no.” Read more here. 

Will voting affidavits still be used this election?

While a new restrictive voter ID law is due to ban the use of affidavits, they will still be in use this election cycle. HB 1569 does not go into effect until midnight on Nov. 11. 

I am unhoused, can I still vote? 

In New Hampshire, a homeless person has the right to register to vote in the town or ward they spend most of their time.

Is early voting an option in NH? 

Unfortunately, no—New Hampshire is one of the few states in the country that does not allow early voting. 

Are you ready to vote? Make sure to check your voter registration status, see who’s on your ballot, and make a voting plan here.