Early voting by absentee ballot available across Maine

By Michael Shepherd, Bangor Daily News Politics Editor

Mainers can vote early by absentee ballot at all municipal offices starting Monday through the rest of October ahead of the state’s Nov. 4 election.

Turnout is likely to be low in the odd-year election with two referendum questions on the statewide ballot. Question 1 would require voters to provide identification before voting and institute new restrictions on absentee voting, while Question 2 is a “red flag” gun-control law similar to those in more than 20 states.

Maine allows no-excuse absentee voting. The system doubles as the state’s form of early voting. You can fill out an absentee ballot in person at your municipal office now through Oct. 30, which is the Thursday before the election.

If you want to vote absentee and return your ballot by mail or in person to your local clerk, you can request a ballot using the state’s online form or making a request at your municipal office. The state recommends mailing in ballots to request a ballot no more than 15 days before Election Day and send it back seven days before the election.

New voters or those who have moved from one municipality to another can register to vote online for the first time this year. You can fill out a registration card at your city or town office or any Bureau of Motor Vehicles location.

You can also register on Election Day at your polling place. If you do that, you must provide proof of residence at your address, such as an ID or a utility bill.

A version of this story was originally published last year. It has been updated to reflect the 2025 elections.