IDP Mails Out Absentee Ballot Request Forms This WeekI got a robo-call yesterday afternoon from Gov. Tom Vilsack. Looks like the IDP is sending out absentee ballot request forms to registered Democrats in the state. On the call, Vilsack urged listeners to fill out the form and send it in right away. "Paid for by the Iowa Democratic Party." So, THAT's where all their money went to. At least it's for a good cause.
For reasons why voting by absentee ballot is preferable or to download a request form, click here.
New Iowa Law Brings Changes in Absentee Ballot ProceduresAnd speaking of absentee ballots, a new law has just gone into effect in Iowa that brings some changes to the procedure.
First off, the request for an absentee ballot has to be made on an official form and can't be made on a plain piece of paper. (You can download an official request form here.)
Second, the counties will now have to foot the bill for the return postage. According to the Des Moines Register, that could cost a big county like Polk over $20,000. (Who came up with THAT idiotic rule? Can you say the Republican-controlled legislature? It certainly wouldn't hurt anyone to pay a one-time fee of under a dollar for a postage stamp to send her or his ballot back in, but the new system's going to put quite a strain on county budgets.)
Third, all requests for absentee ballots must be received in the county auditor's office by October 29.
Fourth, couriers who carry completed absentee ballots to the courthouse must now be trained by a political party or county auditor's office and must submit the ballots within 72 hours of picking them up.
Click here to find the mailing address of your county auditor (for sending in your absentee ballot request).
Linda Thieman
National Women's Election Action Day: September 18
