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Absentee Voting Begins Next Week

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Secretary of State Steve Simon is reminding Minnesotans that absentee voting begins as early as next week.

Eligible voters can begin casting their ballots for the Nov. 8 General Election as soon as Sept. 23.

This is the first time Minnesota voters can choose to vote absentee without providing an excuse for why they can't get to a polling place.

"I encourage all eligible Minnesotans who can't make it to the polls on Election Day, or simply want to vote from the comfort of their own home, to vote early by casting an absentee ballot and ensure that their voice is heard," Simon said in a recent press release.

Voters can request an absentee ballot be mailed to them or they can vote absentee in –person at county or location election offices.

The Office of the Secretary of State said it hopes the availability of absentee ballots will get more people to vote.

According to the Office of Secretary of State, for nine years Minnesota was number on in the country for voter turnout. In 2014, it fell to number six.

To request an absentee ballot, fill out an application online. For more information, visit the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State online.

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