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Media iconPress Release

SCHWAB URGES CAUTION WITH THIRD PARTY VOTER OUTREACH EFFORTS

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

TOPEKA – Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab today reminded Kansas residents to be cautious in participating in third party outreach efforts ahead of the November 3 general election.

"It is not uncommon for third parties – political, activist and otherwise - to engage in voter outreach efforts in an election year," said Secretary Schwab. "Although the intent is sincere, the information collected by third parties does not always meet the requirements laid out in state law, potentially resulting in an incomplete voter registration or mail ballot application."

The Secretary of State’s Office has experienced an influx of calls and emails from Kansas residents with questions after receiving third party mailers, phone calls and electronic communications. Schwab’s office strongly encourages voters to not provide sensitive personal identifying information to third party organizations or outlets. There is no guarantee that third parties will turn in voter information to local election offices to ensure the voter’s information is properly processed. Instead, Secretary Schwab recommends voters register to vote online through the Secretary of State’s website – sos.ks.gov or by contacting their local election office. Voters can also download an advance by mail ballot application online or through their local election office.

"Misinformation is prevalent in election years, particularly this year with the added component of COVID-19. To ensure voters receive accurate information, we encourage them to prepare for the election by registering to vote, updating their voter information or requesting an advance by mail ballot with their local election office or the Secretary of State’s office," said Schwab.

State law requires voters to provide their drivers license or photo identification number or a copy of a government issued ID with voter registration forms and advance by mail ballot applications. Signatures are also required for individuals registering to vote in Kansas and for those who wish to request an advance by mail ballot for the 2020 general election.

ELECTION RESOURCES

GENERAL ELECTION DEADLINES

  • October 13 – Deadline to register to vote
  • October 14 – Advance voting by mail and in-person may begin
  • October 27 – Deadline for voters to apply for advance by mail ballots
  • November 2 – NOON deadline to advance vote in-person
  • November 3 – GENERAL ELECTION
  • November 6 – Deadline for receipt of advance ballots postmarked on or before election day

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Secretary of State Seal