Yes, Voters Can Change Their Vote in a Limited Number of States

More than 60 million Americans have already cast their vote either in person or via mail-in ballots. After the most recent presidential debate, voters throughout the United States have been asking whether they can change their vote. In fact, “can I change my vote” has been trending on Google searches.

News reports provide a clear and unmistakable answer to the question, whether voters can change their vote. Matthew Weil, director of the Election Project at the Bipartisan Policy Center, has said quite clearly that "In some states, you can submit your ballot, have a change of heart . . . , and submit a new ballot.”

The rules vary, but time is of the essence. Here is a snapshot of states allowing voters to change their vote:

• In Michigan, voters who have sent in a ballot can submit a written and signed request to their voting clerk by 5 p.m. October 30 and request to have their mail-in ballot nullified.
• Wisconsin allows a voter to cancel their original absentee ballot and request a new one; but they must do so by October 29, 2020, the legal deadline for requesting absentee ballots by mail.
• New Hampshire voters who have already submitted an absentee ballot can go to the polls on Election Day during the first hour the polls are open and vote in person, or before their absentee ballot is processed.
• In New York, if you have submitted an absentee ballot and you change your mind, you can show up to your polling place during early voting or on Election Day and cast a vote. This means your absentee ballot will be set aside and not counted.

This is general information for some states, but it is critical that you follow up with the election board in your state to find out the exact rules for changing your vote, if you choose to do so.

At the ACLJ, we remain committed to defending the Constitution and the integrity of elections through educational information and, when necessary, legal efforts. We will continue to do so in the coming days.