Secretary of State Nancy Landry discussed the importance of early voting and the various tools available to Louisiana residents to facilitate their participation in the upcoming election. She emphasized that today is the deadline for voter registration for those who will be 18 by November 5th. Residents can register online at govote.com or use the Go Vote mobile app, which provides a convenient way to access sample ballots, check voter registration status, and receive notifications about absentee ballots.
Landry highlighted the benefits of the Go Vote mobile app, which has been continuously improved based on user feedback. The app allows users to prepare for voting by reviewing and marking their choices on sample ballots, ensuring a smoother experience at the polls. It also offers features to track absentee ballots and update voter registration information.
Early voting in Louisiana now spans 10 days for presidential elections, a change made permanent by the legislature in 2021. This extended period, from October 18th to October 29th, provides ample opportunity for residents to vote at their convenience, although early voting is not available on Sundays. Landry noted that about 35% of voters prefer early voting, a number that continues to grow each year.
Landry also discussed recent legislative efforts to enhance election integrity, including bills aimed at cleaning up voter rolls. The state conducts an annual canvas to verify voter addresses and can move inactive voters to an inactive status if they do not respond. A new bill allows the state to verify voters who have not participated in elections for over 10 years, further ensuring the accuracy of voter rolls.
Overall, Landry stressed the importance of voting, whether early or on Election Day, and the various measures in place to make the process as accessible and secure as possible.