If You Don’t Understand the Primaries, Your Vote May Not Be Counted

#kihei

06/26/2020

Did you know that if you vote incorrectly, your vote may not be counted? Although Hawaii does not require political party designation upon voter registration, the state does require you choose a party when voting in the primaries. If you you choose a candidate for a race who is not from the party you selected, that vote will not be counted.

It’s important for all voters in Hawaii to understand how this process works.

Open Primaries VS Closed Primaries

The primary election in Hawaii is open, meaning anyone can vote for any candidate of any party but there are some constraints. “The Primary Election is held to nominate candidates to represent the political parties in the General Election. This nomination process, called a Single Party Primary, asks voters to select candidates from the party of their choice.” (elections.hawaii.gov).  Voters choose their political party prior to completing their primary ballot.

The presidential race is the only closed primary. Only representatives of political parties recognized by the state may submit their party’s choices for president and vice president. 

Voting Calendar

July 9 Voter Registration Deadline

July 21 Primary Election Ballots Delivered

July 27 Primary Voter Service Centers Open

August 8 Primary Election

October 5 Voter Registration Deadline

October 16 General Election Ballots Delivered

October 20 General Voter Service Centers Open

November 3 General Election

For voter registration information or to request a replacement ballot, contact your County Elections Division.

County of Maui (808) 270-7749

State of Hawaii Office of Elections

Telephone: (808) 453-VOTE (8683

Neighbor Islands Toll Free 1-800-442-VOTE (8683)

Email: elections@hawaii.gov

Website: elections.hawaii.gov