2022 Midterm Elections: Where to vote in Ohio? When do your designated polls open and close?
Veteran Congressman Tim Ryan and the Trump-endorsed investor J.D. Vance face off for the state’s crucial vacant Senate seat.
Early voting in the 2022 midterms is currently outpacing the rate recorded in 2018, suggesting that voters are increasingly comfortable with pre-election voting.
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The figures recorded in 2018 broke the record for early voting in midterm elections, largely due to the divisive presidency of former President Trump. But this year, state election officials found a 1.8% increase in early votes in Ohio when compared to the same point in 2018.
In a recent press release, Secretary of State Frank LaRose said: “With two weeks until Election Day, any eligible Ohio voter still planning to vote absentee should mail their request in as soon as possible.”
Here’s everything you need to know about the midterms in Ohio…
Key midterm races in Ohio
Potentially one of the most consequential races in the country is found in Ohio, where Democrat Tim Ryan faces off against Republican J. D. Vance for the state’s open Senate seat.
The two men have very had different routes to this point; Ryan has represented Ohio in Congress for nearly two decades, while Vance is a successful venture capitalist who has recently turned to politics.
On key issues like abortion the two are diametrically opposed, with the Trump-endorsed Vance describing himself as “100 percent pro-life.” Vance has also pledged to help finish Trump’s ill-fated wall on the southern border, while Ryan said he plans to help fix a “broken immigration system.”
Also on the ballot is the race for governor’s office, which could see Democrat Nan Whaley become the first woman to hold the office in Ohio. Incumbent Gov. Mike DeWine has been involved in politics for more than 40 years and has previously held office as state attorney general, state senator and member of the US Senate.
Voters will also get a say on three seats in Ohio’s Supreme Court, which sees candidates required to state their party affiliations on the ballot for the first time. These races could have significant consequences for the state’s abortion laws going forward.
How can I vote in Ohio’s midterm elections?
Ohio offers early voting for residents and you can cast your ballot before Election Day at your county’s board of elections office up until 7 November. Opening hours can vary between different counties so be sure to check before you go.
If you required an absentee ballot you must have requested one before noon on 5 November and your mailed ballot should have been postmarked no later than 7 November to be counted.
Even for the most seasoned Ohio voters it is worth checking your district this year because a raft of redistricting measures have altered the boundaries for many residents. Fortunately there are Ohio state websites that allow you to search for your new district and look up your voter registration.
How do I find my polling location in Ohio?
For those who prefer to cast their ballot in person, the state offers an easy-to-use tool to identify their polling place. The site also shows voters a sample ballot to give them idea on the races, candidates, and initiatives that will appear on their ballot.
Can I still vote early on the Monday before Election Day?
You can vote at your county board of elections office on Monday 7 November 7 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
What time do polls open on Election Day in Ohio?
Polls open in Ohio on November 8 starting at 6:30 a.m.
When will polls close in Ohio?
Polls will close on Election Day at 7:30 p.m.
What do I need to bring to vote in Ohio?
Ohio is one of a number of states that requires residents provide a form of ID to vote. Accepted documents include:
- state driver’s license or ID card
- military ID
- any photo ID issued by the US federal government or State of Ohio, provided it contains name and current address
- utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document from the past 12 months that contains name and current address (except a notice of voter registration)
If you arrive at your vote location without ID you will be allowed to cast a provisional ballot. This lets you submit you vote, but it will not be counted unless you provide a copy of your ID to your County Board of Elections within seven days of the election.