Heavy absentee balloting so far in Winneshiek County

Over 2,600 ballots have already been cast in Winneshiek County in the November 8th general election.

Winneshiek County Auditor Ben Steines says at the beginning of the day on Monday 3,949 absentee ballots had been mailed out.  1,639 went to registered Democrats, 1,306 to registered Republicans and 1,004 to independents, no party preference or minor party preference.

Of the nearly 4,000 absentee ballots sent out, 2,673 have been returned.  That leaves over 1,200 ballots that have been mailed out but not yet returned.  Voters are reminded to return those voted ballots at their earliest convenience.

The Auditor's office will continue absentee voting during normal business hours, as well as during some additional hours:

Saturday, October 29th 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Friday, November 4th open until 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 5th 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Monday, November 7th open until 5:00 p.m.

Voters who need to register or change their address can do so without additional requirements through Saturday, October 29th.  After that date, new voters and address changes will require additional documentation including identification and proof of residency. 

Election information including sample ballots, absentee request forms, voter registration forms, precinct maps, and other information can be obtained on the Winneshiek County website at: www.winneshiekcounty.org.  Questions can be directed to the auditor's office at auditor@co.winneshiek.ia.us or (563) 382-5085.