HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt has issued a reminder to registered voters planning to vote by mail in the May 20 primary election that they must submit their applications by 5 p.m. on May 13. Schmidt emphasized the importance of making voting accessible and ensuring every eligible voter’s voice is heard, a key priority of the Shapiro Administration.
“Voting by mail has become a popular, safe, and secure option for Pennsylvanians to cast their ballots and make their voices heard,” said Schmidt. “Eligible Pennsylvanians who prefer to vote by mail should apply today to allow for as much time as possible to ensure their ballot is received on time.”
To date, 692,919 mail ballot applications have been approved statewide. Once a mail ballot is received, voters must carefully follow the enclosed instructions. After marking their ballot, it must be sealed inside the secrecy envelope labeled “official election ballot” and then placed into the outer return envelope. Voters are required to sign and date the outer envelope to ensure their vote is counted. Completed ballots must be received by voters’ county elections offices no later than 8 p.m. on May 20. Late submissions will not be counted.
For added convenience, voters may apply for, complete, and return their mail ballot in one visit to their county election office until close of business on May 13. Voters are encouraged to confirm their county office’s hours and policies for ballot availability in advance.
Voters who requested a mail-in or absentee ballot but wish to vote in person on Primary Day can do so by surrendering their mail ballot and envelope at their polling location. Without the ballot to surrender, they may vote provisionally.
Because Pennsylvania conducts closed primaries, only registered Democrats and Republicans may vote for their respective party’s nominees. However, all voters may participate in voting on constitutional amendments, ballot questions, or special elections if they appear on their county’s ballot.
With key deadlines approaching, Schmidt reiterated the importance of participation. “No matter how you choose to vote – by mail ballot or in person at the polls on Election Day – what matters is making your voice heard.”
The Department’s voter information website, vote.pa.gov, provides a comprehensive resource for voters in English, Spanish, and Chinese. The site simplifies the voting process by offering access to voter registration applications, a polling place locator, and contact details for county election offices.
First-time voters can find helpful tips to guide them, while there are also dedicated resources for mail-in and absentee voters, elderly and disabled voters, and members of the military. Whether you’re registering to vote, finding your polling location, or learning more about the voting process, this user-friendly platform is designed to meet your needs and ensure your voice is heard.
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