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Election Day is just around the corner on Tuesday, Nov. 5, with Polk’s primary election on Tuesday, Aug. 20. Don’t worry, we did the Googling so you don’t have to. To make this election as easy as possible, we’ve curated the need-to-know information about how and where to vote.
Are you registered?
First things first, make sure you’re eligible + registered to vote. Then, check your voter registration to identify your voting district. Voter registration for the primary has closed, but it’s still open for the general election through Monday, Oct. 7.
Find your polling location
Polk County polling places will be open on Tuesday, Aug. 20 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you’re unsure where to go, you can request voter information that provides your registration status + polling location.
Early walk-in voting is available from Saturday, Aug. 10 to Saturday, Aug. 17, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at these locations. Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring your photo ID and signature identification.
Voting by mail? Completed ballots must be received by Tuesday, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. to be counted.
What are we voting on?
According to the sample ballot, Polk County voters will be voting for these seats in the primary:
- State senators + representatives
- School board seats in Districts 1, 2, and 4
- County commissioners in Districts 1 and 5
- Property appraiser
- And more
Note: Some of these races will be decided in the primary rather than the general election, including property appraiser and the District 5 county commissioner.
The candidates
Candidates spoke before voters at various events like Politics in the Park. If you couldn’t attend the event hosted by the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce, read up on what candidates shared about their platforms.
