How to Vote in Delaware’s State Primary Election in September

The coronavirus pandemic prompted Delaware officials to move the state’s presidential primary from April to July, but its Democratic and Republican primaries for state contests are still on schedule for Sept. 15. The ballot will feature contests for the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as the governorship and a handful of state and local offices. 

But voting will look significantly different this year than it has in years past as a result of the pandemic. Delaware lawmakers have approved the distribution of absentee ballot applications to all registered voters in the state; each voter will get an absentee ballot application in the mail and can complete and return it without having to cite a reason for voting absentee.

Voters are still able to vote at physical polling locations, but absentee ballots are expected to be more popular as people limit their potential exposure to coronavirus.

Lucretia Young, director of AARP’s Delaware office praised state officials for making it “easier and safer to vote this year” and said “it is important to make your voice heard on issues that are important to you and your family.” 

Here’s what you need to know to safely cast your ballot:

When are the primary elections?

Delaware’s state primaries will be held on Sept. 15. They trail the state’s presidential preference primaries, which were held on July 7. President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden won the Republican and Democratic presidential preference primaries, respectively.

For those who choose to vote in person in the state primary elections, polls will open on Sept. 15 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Who can vote in the primaries?

Registered Republicans and Democrats are the only Delaware residents who can vote in the state’s primary contests. Members of each party can only vote in their party’s respective primary. Those who are not registered members of either party will not be permitted to vote, though they may be able to participate in separate minor party contests, which are organized separately by the minor parties themselves.

What are the big races?

Democratic Sen. Chris Coons faces a primary challenge from Jessica Scarane, a digital marketing strategist based out of Wilmington. And Delaware’s Democratic Gov. John Carney will need to defeat challenger David Lamar Williams, Jr. for a shot at re-election.

Several Republicans are also vying to represent the GOP in November’s gubernatorial race. The September primaries will also feature several other state and local contests.

How do I register to vote?

You can register online, by phone, by mail, or in person. Register online at the state department of elections website or download the application and mail it to the department of elections in your county. Or call your county’s department and request a ballot application. You can also register in person at a local Division of Motor Vehicles office and certain other state government offices.

New and unaffiliated voters have until Aug. 22 to register with either the Republican or Democratic parties to vote in the Sept. 15 contests. The deadline for registered voters to switch parties was May 29, so registered Republicans or Democrats are not able to change their affiliation and still vote in the state primaries.

Can I vote by casting an absentee ballot?

Yes, and voters will no longer need to provide an excuse for absentee voting. State lawmakers in June signed off on legislation that expands absentee voting to all registered voters in Delaware, both for the primaries in September and the general election in November. Proponents of the bill cited risks associated with contracting COVID-19 as their motivation.

The state will begin mailing out absentee ballots in late July to those who are registered and continue responding to requests up to four days before Election Day. Absentee ballots must be returned to the county from where they were issued by 8 pm on Sept. 15.

What are my options for early voting?

Early in-person voting has been approved in Delaware, but it won’t be an option for voters until 2022. Voters must either use absentee ballots or vote in person on Election Day.

When and where can I vote in person?

Polls open on Sept. 15 at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. The state government maintains a voter portal to help you find your polling location. A list of polling places is also available on the state election commissioner’s website.

What should I bring with me to vote in person?

It’s a good idea to bring a driver’s license, Social Security card or government-issued ID. While not required, voters who do not have proper identification must sign an affidavit of identity affirming they are who they say they are.

Voters should also bring a mask or protective face covering. Gov. Carney in April directed Delawareans to wear face masks in public settings.

Is voting in person safe?

The coronavirus is still spreading throughout the state and the rest of the country. However, Delaware is working with health officials and local municipalities to safeguard polling locations for poll workers and voters. And remember that this year, all registered voters can safely cast their absentee ballot from home. 

Is voting by absentee ballot safe?

Yes, absentee ballots are safely and securely handled and have been distributed effectively for years. Government officials are expecting a big uptick in absentee ballots this year, as they allow voters to cast ballots while mitigating risk of exposure to the coronavirus.