PORTLAND (AP) – Even without statewide races for U.S. Senate or governor, the Maine election seems to be drawing plenty of interest. Here, in question-and-answer form, are some facts about Tuesday’s balloting.
Q: What’s at stake in Maine?
A: Aside from the presidential race, Mainers will elect two members of the U.S. House of Representatives and fill the entire state Legislature: 151 House members and 35 senators. Also on the ballot are statewide questions on whether to cap property taxes and restrict bear hunting. County and municipal offices are also up for grabs.
Q: How many electoral votes are at stake in Maine?
A: Four. A presidential candidate needs 270 to win.
Q: Is Maine a battleground state in the presidential race?
A: Up until a few weeks ago it was. But recent polls show Democrat John Kerry ahead and Maine no longer a first-tier battleground state.
Q: What’s with the possibility of Maine dividing its electoral votes?
A: Maine, like Nebraska, parcels out some of its electoral votes by congressional district. That means a candidate can lose the state but carry one district. The race in the 2nd District is thought to be closer than in the state as a whole, triggering speculation that President Bush could carry the district and lose the state, thereby winning one of the four votes.
Q: Is it too late to register to vote?
A: Not at all. Voters can register on Election Day in Maine.
Q: Can I still vote by absentee ballot?
A: Yes, but time is running out. An absentee ballot must be delivered to the city or town clerk before the polls are closed.
Q: What time are polls open?
A: Polls open between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. They close at 8 p.m.
Q: What happens if I make a mistake in marking my ballot?
A: A voter who spoils a ballot may obtain a replacement. This cannot be done more than twice.
Q: When will the media begin to report the results?
A: Early returns should begin trickling in at around 9 p.m. or so. But there may not be anything definitive until 11 p.m. or later, especially if the races are close. A lot of the smaller towns in Maine still tally their ballots by hand, delaying the count.
Q: What’s the best place to get information about laws governing elections in Maine?
A: The Office of the Secretary of State in Augusta. Or check online at http://www.state.me.us/sos/
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