Letter to the Editor – Absentee Voting 101: How to Vote If You Can’t Be at the Polls

Absentee Voting 101

Local elections may not come with confetti cannons or TV debates, but they’re where the decisions that shape our daily lives get made. And in Ridgefield, every single vote matters.

If you can’t make it to the polls for the November 4, 2025 municipal election, Connecticut gives you another way to raise your voice: the absentee ballot.

Here’s the scoop:

• October 3 – Absentee ballots become available at the Town Clerk’s office.
• November 3 – Last day to request one.
• November 4 – Ballot must be received by 8 p.m. sharp.

You qualify for an absentee ballot if you’re serving in the military, out of town, sick (including during a public health risk), physically disabled, prevented by religious beliefs, or working as an election official. (CT did pass no-excuse absentee voting; however, it will not be instituted until the 2026 election.)

Applying is easy:

• Online: If you have a CT driver’s license or state ID, apply through the Connecticut Absentee Ballot Request Portal.
• By Mail: Download the application from the Secretary of the State’s website and send it to the Town Clerk.
• In Person: Stop by the Town Clerk’s office and fill out the application. After you hand it back, you can fill out your ballot and vote!

Remember: you must apply separately for each election.

Our town runs best when everyone shows up, whether in person or by ballot. So, Ridgefield, let’s make sure our voices are counted this November. Democracy works best when we all get in the game!

Amanda Cordano
Florida Hill Road