The following are commonly asked questions about voting in Oregon.
What is Vote By Mail?
In 1998 voters passed a ballot measure directing all elections to
be conducted by mail, commonly called Vote By Mail. Instead of using
traditional polling places where voters go to cast ballots on election
day, a ballot is mailed to each registered voter. The ballot is
then returned to the county elections office and is counted on election
day.
With Vote By Mail, how do I vote?
You must be registered to vote to receive a ballot. (Please see
FAQ for more information.)
A ballot will automatically be sent to all registered voters who
are eligible to vote in the election 18 to 14 days prior to the
election. Once you vote your ballot, just place it in the secrecy
envelope, seal it and place it in the return envelope. Make
sure to sign the return envelope after
verifying your name and current residence address is correct. Then
place a first-class stamp on the return envelope and mail it back. Remember
that all ballots must be received at the elections office by 8:00
p.m. on election day. Postmarks do not count!
What if my ballot doesn't come?
If your ballot does not arrive within 5 days after they have been mailed, please
call your county elections office. After checking your voter registration status
the county elections office will send you a replacement ballot.
What if I make a mistake on my ballot?
If you make a mistake, clearly erase the incorrect mark then
mark the correct oval. If you make a mistake that cannot be
corrected or used a pen, you may call your county election
office and request a replacement ballot. One will be mailed
to you provided the request is received with sufficient time
for mailing. Otherwise, you may pick up a replacement ballot
in person at your county election office.
Will my vote still count if I don't vote on all measures and/or candidates?
Yes, the ballot will still be counted.
What If I forget to sign my return envelope and I have already mailed it?
Your ballot will be returned to you for your signature, unless there is not time to return it by mail.
Otherwise, you may come into our office and sign it. Please call our office at 503-988-3720
to check on your ballot status.
Can I change my mind after I've returned the ballot?
No. Your ballot has been cast as soon as you deposit it in the mailbox or at a drop site. After that, you
cannot receive a new ballot to re-vote.
Will my vote still count if I forget to put my ballot into the secrecy envelope?
Yes, the ballot will still be counted.
Do I have to return my ballot by mail?
No. You have the choice of mailing your ballot or returning it to any county election office or any
designated drop site. The times and locations of drop sites in Multnomah County are listed
in each Voters' Pamphlet or on our website.
How do I know if my ballot was received?
You can always call your county election office and ask if they received your ballot. A record is kept showing each voter whose ballot has been returned.
Can someone find out how I've voted?
No. All ballots are separated from the return envelope before the ballots are inspected. This process ensures confidentiality.
Can someone find out whether I've returned my ballot?
Yes. That information is public record.
When are the ballots counted?
All ballots are counted on election day - none are counted before. No results can be announced until 8:00 p.m. on election night.
The Tuesday before election day, county election officials may begin preparing the ballots for counting by opening the return identification envelope and the secrecy envelope. The ballots are secured until election day.
When will election results be known?
Initial results are released at 8:00 p.m. election night and will continue to be updated through election night until all ballots have been counted.
What if I have more questions?
Call Multnomah County Elections, 503-988-3720 or send us an e-mail, and our elections staff will
be glad to assist you.
