Minnesota absentee voting begins for midterm elections

Absentee voting has commenced across Minnesota for the upcoming midterm elections. Voters in the state will participate in several high-profile races, including elections for Governor, U.S. Senator, and various state legislative seats, as well as a school funding amendment.

In Stearns County, residents can access absentee voting at St. Cloud City Hall and the Stearns County Westside Service Center. The county has announced extended office hours for several dates in late October and early November to accommodate voters. Applications for ballots can be submitted online or by contacting the Auditor-Treasurer's Office.

In Rochester and Olmsted County, the ballot includes races for Mayor, City Council, County Board, and County Attorney, alongside the Rochester School Board. Voters may submit ballots by mail or in person. Those using mail-in ballots must ensure they have a witness who is a U.S. citizen aged 18 or older, a notary public, or an authorized official. Ballots must be received by the designated deadlines on Election Day to be counted.