Minnesota
Last updated: August 6, 2020
Given the state’s historically high voter turnout, Minnesota will need to prepare for a significant increase in mail-in ballots while maintaining in-person polling options despite a reduced workforce, centralization of polling locations, and social distancing requirements. To address some of these concerns, Minnesota has instituted changes to its mail-ballot procedures and passed legislation to give more time and resources to local election officials. But challenges remain, especially given inconsistent messaging on new election procedures from Minnesota’s counties, which are largely responsible for administering the elections.
Latest Updates:
-
10/30/20 - Ballot Deadline: A federal appeals court ruled that election officials in Minnesota have to set aside ballots that arrive after 8 p.m. on Election Day, reversing the state's seven day grace period that had been in place for ballots postmarked by Election Day.
-
9/1/20 - Poll Worker Shortage: Secretary of State Steve Simon reports that Minnesota is facing a shortage of 30,000 poll workers across the state and that a mass hiring campaign will be crucial to ensure that the November general election runs smoothly.