Governor Murphy announced during today’s briefing the new procedures for the July 7, 2020 Primary Election. “This will be a primarily, and that’s an important word, vote-by-mail election. ” Murphy stated. “However, we will ensure that a limited number of in-person polling places in each county will be open to ensure everyone’s right to vote.”
Murphy went on to clarify procedures for his upcoming executive order stating, “All registered Democratic and Republican voters will automatically receive a postage-paid vote-by-mail ballot. Those that want to vote in-person can do so by visiting one of the limited number of in-person polling places in each county.” At least one voting polling location will be available in each municipality and at least 50% of the overall normal locations by county.
For residents which have yet to register their party affiliation, a ballot application will be sent by mail automatically. The application can be returned by mail in the accompanying postage-paid envelope. In addition to the vote-by-mail availability, Murphy will, “require counties to distribute secure drop boxes for voters to turn in their completed ballots.”
Ballots must be postmarked by election day, July 7th, however ballots will be accepted 7 days after the election rather than 24 hours after polls close.