The state of Indiana has a unique deadline for voter registration for the upcoming primary election that coincides with the total solar eclipse on April 8. While many county offices will be closed in anticipation of the event, exceptions may extend the deadline for some voters. If a county office is closed on the deadline date, the in-person application deadline is extended to noon the following day. This means that residents have until April 9 at noon to register to vote if their county office was closed on April 8. However, if a county office is open on the day of the eclipse, the deadline to register in person is not extended, and residents must submit their applications by the end of the office’s business day.
Angela Nussmeyer, co-director of the Indiana Election Division, stated that the office does not have a count of how many counties may have modified hours due to the eclipse. While the deadline for in-person voter registration may be moved, the deadline to register online remains the same. Hoosiers must submit online applications by 11:59 p.m. on April 8 in order to register for the upcoming primary election. All of Indiana will at least see a partial eclipse, and the path of totality will cross a large swath of central and southern Indiana, including cities like Terre Haute, Indianapolis, Bloomington, and Muncie. The celestial event is expected to drive significant tourism to the state.
The Indiana Election Division newsletter highlighted that early voting is not delayed and will start on the Tuesday following the eclipse with the opening of county offices. The primary election in Indiana is scheduled for May 7, and residents are encouraged to check with their county for operation hours, especially on the day of the solar eclipse. The newsletter emphasizes the importance of registering to vote, as Indiana residents have the opportunity to have their voices heard in the upcoming election.
It is important for Indiana residents to be aware of the voter registration deadline and any potential modifications in county office hours due to the solar eclipse. With both the eclipse and the primary election on the horizon, there is a need for voters to stay informed and ensure they are registered to participate in the democratic process. The state is taking measures to accommodate voters affected by the eclipse, extending the deadline for in-person registration in some cases. By registering to vote, residents can actively engage in shaping the future of their state and country.
The total solar eclipse on April 8 is a unique opportunity for Indiana residents to witness a rare celestial event, but they should also keep in mind the importance of participating in the democratic process by registering to vote for the upcoming primary election. The eclipse may cause some county offices to close, affecting the voter registration deadline for some residents. However, early voting will proceed as scheduled, starting the day following the eclipse. Indiana’s primary election on May 7 is a key moment for residents to make their voices heard and contribute to the future of the state.
