Oregon voters urged to use drop boxes as mail-in ballot deadline nears

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read is reminding voters that today marks the final recommended day to return ballots by mail for the May 19 statewide election. Voters are now encouraged to use official ballot drop boxes to ensure their vote is counted.

This recommendation comes one week before Election Day due to recent service cuts at the U.S. Postal Service, which could prevent mail-in ballots from receiving a timely postmark.

Ballots returned by mail within seven days of Election Day face the risk of not receiving a postmark by Election Day, a requirement for valid submission. Additionally, ballots must be received by the county election office within a seven-day grace period following the election.

The concern is particularly important for voters in Eastern, Central and Southern Oregon, as their mail must travel to Portland for processing and postmarking before being sent back to their local county election offices.

Oregon Secretary of State Read emphasized the importance of secure ballot return. Read noted that voters should not have their choices disregarded due to postal service issues.

"Oregonians who make their choices and cast their vote should not have that vote discounted due to cuts at the Postal Service," Read said. "Official ballot drop boxes are the best way to ensure your vote will get counted and your voice heard."

For voters who still need to send their ballot via mail, Secretary Read advises them to visit a post office and specifically request a manual postmark.

To assist Oregonians, the Secretary of State's office has created an online tool. This tool allows voters to easily locate the official ballot drop box closest to them.

All ballots must be returned to an official drop box before 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.

Watch interviews with all 15 Deschutes County Commissioner Candidates here.

Full election coverage here.