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RISE & Shine! 3 Ways to Vote Early

Writer: Mariah Tang
Mariah Tang
19 hours ago
4 min read

Voting is a fundamental right of all eligible U.S. citizens. Casting your vote is a powerful way to make your voice known, shape your community, and decide the future of the issues you care about most.


While Election Day gets all the hype, it isn't your only option. There are several ways to vote early, and doing so gives you the peace of mind that you’ve done your part to defend democracy.


There are several benefits to casting your ballot early:

  • Save Time: Lines of voters on Election Day may wrap around the building, especially during peak hours. By voting early, you can walk in and out in minutes.

  • Set Your Own Schedule: From unpredictable work schedules and last-minute schedule changes, voting early ensures life's surprises won't get in the way.

  • More Time to Study: You have time to sit down, research the candidates and measures, and fill out your ballot with confidence rather than feeling rushed.


RISE & Vote Early!

When you're deciding how and when to cast your ballot, keep this simple checklist in mind:

  • Right: Voting is your fundamental right as an eligible citizen—claim it.

  • Important: Every single election impacts your local roads, schools, healthcare, and rights.

  • Styles: You have multiple voting options—choose the style that best fits your busy schedule.

  • Early: Voting early guarantees your ballot is safely counted without last-minute stress.


3 Ways to Vote Early in 2026

As an eligible voter, you have flexible choices for casting your ballot this election season.


1. Absentee by Mail

Voting absentee means voting away from your normal polling place. It’s a legal, simple way to vote when it works for your schedule.


Here are some tips to make your absentee ballot experience seamless:

  • Request your ballot early: Request your absentee ballot by October 7. Request forms must be received by October 19 at 5:00 PM.

  • Wait patiently: Once approved, your ballot will arrive safely in your mailbox.

  • Fill it out and turn it in: Carefully follow the instructions, seal your envelope, and drop it back in the mail. Or place it directly into the secure drop box at your County Auditor’s office.

  • Deadlines matter: Completed ballots must be received in the county auditor’s office by 8:00 PM on Election Day, November 3.

  • The trade-off: You might miss out on getting the "I Voted" sticker, but consider it a noble sacrifice for the convenience! 


If your mail-in ballot doesn't arrive in time, don't worry. You can still cast an early in-person ballot at a satellite location or vote at your polling place on November 3.


2. Early In-Person & Satellite Voting

Satellite locations and early voting centers make it quick and effortless. You can vote in person at designated satellite sites like Lindale Mall or directly at your County Auditor’s office from October 14 through November 2.


Need to update your address or register for the first time? You can register and vote at the same time! Just bring a valid ID and proof of residence. 


Here are the steps to vote in person or at a satellite location:

  • Check in with the poll workers by showing your government-issued ID.

  • Claim your absentee ballot.

  • Drop your completed ballot into the machine.

  • Pick up your "I Voted" sticker!

  • Go on with your day knowing your civic duty is complete!


Here is a list of satellite voting sites and hours, courtesy of Linn County Election Services:

  • Jean Oxley Linn County Public Service Center: 935 2nd St SW, Cedar Rapids. Voting will be on the basement level.

    • Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 am - 4:30 pm, with two exceptions:

      • Open until 5 pm on Mon, Oct. 19

      • Open until 5 pm on Friday, Oct. 30

      • October 31, 8am-5pm 

  • Lindale Mall: 4444 1St Ave NE, Cedar Rapids. Voting will be in the former American Eagle Outfitters location.Oct. 14 - Nov. 1.

    • Hours: 

      • Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-6:30pm

      • Sundays, Noon-5pm

      • Closed Mondays

  • Short-Term Satellite Voting Locations: Days and times to be posted by October 1 at LinnCountyIowa.gov/843. (See a calendar of dates/locations). 

    • Cedar Rapids Public Library: Across from Beems Auditorium, Oct. 17 10am-4pm, and Oct. 18, 1:30-4:30pm

    • Cedar Rapids Public Library: Busse Branch, Oct. 24, 10am-4pm and Oct. 25, 1:30-4:30pm

    • Marion Public Library: Oct. 26, 9am-3pm

    • Coe College: Gage Memorial Union, Oct. 20, 10am-4pm

    • Cornell College: At The SAW, Oct. 28, 11am-6pm


3. In Person

on Election Day

Prefer the traditional Election Day experience? Mark your calendar! The polls are open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, November 3. Plan to get there early for a shorter line! As long as you are standing in line by 8:00 PM, you are legally allowed to cast your vote.


If you aren't registered yet, you can register and vote at your designated polling place on Election Day. Find your designated polling place. 


Don’t forget to pick up your “I Voted” sticker and wear it with pride! You’ve done your civic duty. Someone seeing you wearing it might encourage them to vote, too.


Voting is your right—it's the foundation of our democracy. Don't leave your voice to chance. Choose your voting method, make a plan, vote early, and help defend democracy!


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