The Virginia presidential primary is coming up on Tuesday, March 5. The deadline to request a Virginia absentee ballot to be mailed to you is Friday, Feb. 23, by 5 p.m., but you should apply for your ballot as soon as possible to allow time for processing. Complete and return your ballot to your local general registrar’s office in person by 7 p.m. on Primary Election Day (Super Tuesday), March 5, or by mail, postmarked on or before Election Day. You may also return your absentee ballot to a drop-off location. For more information on drop-off locations in your locality, review the absentee instructions provided in your absentee ballot mailing.

Participating in primary elections is essential, as it allows voters to influence the selection of candidates within their political party, shape party platforms, and ensure representation of diverse perspectives. It promotes civic engagement and provides voters with a direct means of expressing their political preferences. Primary elections are a crucial early stage in the democratic process, influencing candidate selection, party direction, and overall political engagement.

If you plan to vote from your home state, visit the website of your local Board of Elections for absentee ballot information. You may also stop by the Center for Civic Engagement (Brandt Student Center, Room 119), contact Director of Civic Engagement Rebecca Gibson at rgibson@su.edu, or visit the CCE’s table in the BSC on Wednesday, Feb. 28, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. for more information.