Garen Yegparian
Within a few days, maximum a week, of when you read this, Californians who are registered voters will be receiving their Tuesday, June 7, Presidential Primary Election ballots (if they vote by mail — VBM) or sample ballots (if traditional polling place voters). On Primary Day polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. In fact, the state’s Official Voter Information Guide has already been received. There’s also a Nevada race that is important for Armenians.
Very possibly, this is the easiest election I have ever written about. Only one ballot measure, a presidential primary that is half done, and obvious choices for most of the down-ballot elections. Enjoy it while it lasts, since November’s election is going to be massive and complex.
At the risk of boring readers, let me cover a few basics. These apply to California. Each state has its own rules. If you are not yet registered to vote (or want to reregister because you moved or want to change your party affiliation, etc.), the deadline is May 24th – that is the date by which the Registrar of Voters must have RECEIVED your completed form. If you want to request a VBM ballot (the form is the back page of the sample ballot), it must be RECEIVED by May 30th. At this point in time, if you do either of these, it is possible that your name might not make it on to the voter rolls in time. That happens because as we close in on election day, the offices get very backed up. Not to worry! You can always request a “Provisional Ballotâ€
