August primary deadlines approaching

The Accomack and Northampton County voter registration offices are reminding residents that preparations are underway for Virginia’s dual primary election on Tuesday, Aug. 4.

Voters in both the Democratic and Republican primaries will nominate candidates for the U.S. Senate, Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, and several local offices. Democrats will choose from four candidates seeking to challenge incumbent Republican Congresswoman Jen Kiggans in November. Republicans will choose from three candidates seeking to challenge incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Mark Warner.

Several important voting deadlines are approaching.

Friday, July 24, is the deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail. Applications must be received by the appropriate voter registration office no later than 5 p.m. It is also the last day to register to vote or update voter registration information before the regular registration deadline.

Beginning Saturday, July 25, voters who still need to register may do so through Virginia’s Same Day Registration process. Those ballots are cast provisionally and reviewed after the election. Same Day Registration remains available through Election Day, except on Monday, Aug. 3.

Weekend early voting opportunities continue with Saturday voting beginning July 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., followed by Sunday voting on July 26 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The final opportunity to vote early in person will be Saturday, Aug. 1, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Election Day is Tuesday, Aug. 4. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. at assigned polling places. Early voting will not be available at registrar’s offices on Election Day.

Election officials also remind voters to bring a valid photo ID. Those without identification may still cast a regular ballot by completing an ID Confirmation Statement. Curbside voting assistance will be available during early voting and at all polling locations on Election Day.

Voters returning absentee ballots may use secure ballot drop boxes at local voter registration and elections offices. Absentee ballots may also be dropped off at polling places on Election Day.

For additional information, voters should contact their local voter registration office or visit the Virginia Department of Elections website.