Early voting has commenced in both Washington, D.C., and Colorado, providing voters with the chance to cast their ballots before Election Day. In Colorado, two key down-ballot races are being closely watched. In the 3rd District, incumbent Rep. Lauren Boebert is facing a challenge from Democratic candidate Adam Frisch and Republican attorney Jeff Hurd in a race that is ranked as Lean R. Meanwhile, in the 8th District, Democratic incumbent Rep. Yadira Caraveo is up against Republican state politician Gabe Evans in a race that is considered a Toss Up.
In Colorado, residents have the option to vote by mail, with absentee voting starting on Oct. 11. Eligible voters were automatically mailed ballots between Oct. 11 and Oct. 18, and these must be returned to state officials by Nov. 5. Additionally, Colorado offers early in-person voting, but locations and dates vary, so voters are encouraged to check the state’s election website for more information. Those wishing to register to vote in Colorado can do so in person, by mail, or online during early voting and on Election Day, with the registration deadline falling on Oct. 28.
Washington, D.C., also began absentee voting on Monday, allowing registered voters to receive their ballots without needing to apply. Ballots were mailed to all active registered voters starting on Sept. 30, and can be returned by mail or in person until Election Day. Early in-person voting in Washington, D.C., is set to begin on Oct. 28 and will run through Nov. 3. The voter registration deadline for residents to register online or by mail was Oct. 15, but they can still register in person during early voting or on Election Day.
Overall, the early voting process in both Washington, D.C., and Colorado offers residents multiple avenues for casting their ballots, whether by mail or in-person. Key down-ballot races in Colorado are generating interest and scrutiny, with close contests expected in districts that have traditionally leaned Republican. Residents in both locations have been provided with ample information and resources to ensure that they are able to exercise their voting rights and participate in the democratic process. As the election season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these early voting results may impact the final outcomes on Election Day.
