Dear Friend,

First, I want to say I hope you, your friends, and family are all safe and healthy.

This public health crisis has been a serious test for all Minnesotans. It has also been a test for our democracy. I've heard from many Minnesotans who wonder how, or even if, we will vote in this high-stakes election year. My answer is clear: The 2020 statewide elections must go on as scheduled.

We need to be prepared for a different kind of election than we are used to, but whatever happens I'm determined that Minnesotans should not have to choose between their health and their right to vote.

My office is already planning for safe and secure statewide elections during a pandemic. Here's some of what we're thinking about:

• Statewide mail ballots: Each registered voter would be mailed a ballot to be completed at home, and returned by mail.
• Expanded absentee voting: Minnesotans would be encouraged to vote absentee under our current system. An expanded version of that might include:
  • Reducing the number of polling places
  • Limiting polling places to centralized locations
  • Moving polling places out of vulnerable areas, such as senior care facilities.

Every year as Secretary of State, I've toured all 87 of Minnesota’s counties. The best ideas come from all over the state. Now, I'm actively reaching out to partners across Minnesota to explore the options before us. We're all going to have to work together to maximize the safety and security of this year's statewide elections.

Rest assured, no matter what Congress decides to do about providing help to states as they confront the cost of increased voting by mail, we in Minnesota are working on an election plan now. Whatever option we use, we’ll do the planning thoughtfully, carefully, and together.

Pandemic or not, my mission has not changed: I am here to make voting as easy as possible for all eligible Minnesotans.

Stay safe, and look out for each other. The world could use more empathy.

Steve

P.S. If you haven’t seen it, here is a link to my video statement on our efforts.