June 2 is the Pennsylvania Primary Election. Due to COVID-19, some aspects of voting have changed. We have bolded those adjustments so it is easier for you to read.
- As long as you are registered to vote as a Democratic or Republican party member, you are allowed to vote in this election.
- This is the first election to allow no-excuse mail-in ballots as well as absentee ballots. Your mail-in ballots and absentee ballots must be received by June 2 at 8 PM.
- If you are voting in person, wear a mask and, when possible, stay at least 6 feet away from voters and poll workers. Read the entire list of changes and suggestions here.
- Polls are open from 7 AM to 8 PM. If you are in line at 8 PM, you are still allowed to vote.
- Many polling places have closed or changed due to COVID-19. You can find your polling place on Allegheny County’s website.
- An ID is not required to vote unless you are voting for the first time at your polling place. You may show a photo ID or a non-photo ID if it has your full name and current address on it. Acceptable forms of photo ID include driver’s license, passport, U.S. Armed Forces ID, and student ID. Acceptable forms of non-photo ID include a current utility bill, bank statement, or paycheck. You can see the entire list of acceptable IDs at Allegheny County’s website.
- Check the election results on Allegheny County’s website or Pennsylvania’s website.
Before You Vote
- Check to see if you are still registered to vote by using the PA Voter Services website. If you did not change your address or your name since you last voted, then your registration is still valid.
- Many polling places have changed due to COVID-19. Check your polling place online.
- View a sample ballot so you know who or what to vote for on Election Day.
- Learn about the candidates and causes on the ballot by doing your research ahead of time. The League of Women Voters of Greater Pittsburgh and The Incline have voters guides. Ballotpedia has a Pennsylvania Elections 2020 website, including sample ballots and candidate profiles. Vote411.org provides personalized ballot and voting information. You can also look at each candidate’s website to examine their platforms in depth.
- Learn how to use the voting machines by watching this video or reading this brochure provided by Allegheny County.
- If you have any other questions about voting or your registration, check the Votes PA website, PA.gov’s Voting and Elections Guide, or Allegheny County’s elections website. You can also call the Allegheny County Elections office at 412-350-4500.
When You Vote
- Submit your mail-in or absentee ballot as soon as possible. It needs to be received by 8 PM on June 2. You may drop off your completed ballot at the designated tables in the lobby of the County Office Building in downtown Pittsburgh May 30-June 2.
- Check the status of your mail-in or absentee ballot online to ensure it was counted. If you are unsure if it was counted or haven’t received your ballot, you may submit a provisional ballot in person.
- Polls are open from 7 AM to 8 PM. If you are in line at 8 PM, you are still allowed to vote.
- An ID is not required to vote unless you are voting for the first time at your polling place. You may show a photo ID or a non-photo ID if it has your full name and current address on it. Acceptable forms of photo ID include driver’s license, passport, U.S. Armed Forces ID, and student ID. Acceptable forms of non-photo ID include a current utility bill, bank statement, or paycheck. You can see the entire list of acceptable IDs at Allegheny County’s website.
- Follow all COVID-19 safety protocol. Wear a mask, follow all markings and instructions to maintain physical distancing, and bring your own pens if desired. Read all the safety protocol here.
- If your voter registration is challenged, you are allowed to cast a provisional ballot. Provisional ballots are counted once your registration is confirmed.
- You may request voting assistance from election officials, friends, family, or another voter of your choice. Voting assistance includes aid for disabilities, illiteracy, and non-native English speakers. Your employer, union representative, or the Judge of Elections cannot provide voting assistance.
- If 50% or more of the voting machines at your polling place are broken or you are disabled and unable to cast your ballot, you may request an Emergency Paper Ballot.
- If you are disabled or above the age of 65 and are unable to vote, you may request an Emergency Alternative Ballot.
- If you believe that your ability to vote was impeded by intimidation, bias, or lack of appropriate aid, you may file a complaint by calling the Pennsylvania Department of State at 877-VOTES-PA (877-868-3772) or by completing an online form. You can also contact the national organization Vote411.org by calling 1-866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683).
After You Vote
- Check the election returns on Allegheny County’s live results website or www.electionreturns.pa.gov.
- If you cast a provisional ballot you can check to see if it was counted by calling 877-VOTES-PA (877-868-3772) or by checking online. The County Board of Elections is required to verify your provisional ballot within 7 days of Election Day.
If you have any other questions about the election, contact one of our librarians or the Allegheny County Elections office at 412-350-4500.
Thank you for doing your civic duty as safely as possible.
