PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Rhode Islanders won't cast ballots for at least three months, but a crucial deadline looms for voters this week, according to Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis.
State law requires voters who are registered as Democrats, Moderates or Republicans to disaffiliate by June 16 if they plan on voting in a different party’s primary Sept. 14. Voters can change their political party affiliation by contacting the board of canvassers in the city or town that is their legal residence.
Some of the key races where primaries appear to be likely include governor, attorney general and both of Rhode Island's seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Every key date leading up to the Sept. 14 primary and Nov. 2 election is included in a 26-page guidebook Mollis created to assist candidates and voters with understanding Rhode Island election law.
"Based on the record turnout in the last election, we expect voters will be more engaged this year than ever before. Ensuring our elections are accessible to those who vote and those who hope to serve is my priority,” said Mollis.
The calendar includes a detailed list of crucial dates in the 2010 races for offices ranging from town council to Governor to the U.S. House of Representatives. There is no race for U.S. Senate this year.
“You will find key deadlines and basic facts about everything from registering to vote to filing nomination papers. We also give you important dates and details regarding campaign finance regulations,” said Mollis.
A record 700,000 Rhode Islanders registered to vote in the 2008 elections. Rhode Island set new high for turnout in a primary and a general election, too.
“I had the privilege of overseeing Rhode Island’s record-breaking elections in 2008. More Rhode Islanders registered to vote and more turned out at the polls than at any other time in state history. I hope this year will be just as historic,” said Mollis.
Secretary of State Mollis is committed to making it easier for Rhode Islanders to vote, helping businesses grow and making government more open and accessible. For more information about registering to vote, disaffiliating or the 2010 election calendar, visit sos.ri.gov.
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