St. Charles Times

Thousands of voters have already participated in absentee voting for the upcoming November election, with expectations that over 200,000 ballots will be cast by November 5. Since the opening of no-excuse absentee voting on October 22, more than 20,000 voters have participated within the first five days, surpassing previous absentee voting figures.

Kurt Bahr, Director of Elections, noted a significant milestone with registered voters exceeding 300,000 for the first time. "I think that shows how engaged people are," Bahr stated. "St. Charles County voters know their vote counts and their vote will be counted."

Bahr anticipates a voter turnout of approximately 75% among registered voters in the county, equating to about 225,000 participants. He expressed optimism regarding absentee voting turnout: "I’m encouraged by the turnout for absentee voting," he said. "I hope it eases the lines on Election Day, but I’m mostly proud to see how many engaged voters we have who were ready to cast their ballot and participate in the election."

This year has seen a focus on election integrity, with measures implemented to ensure accurate vote counting. On October 24, voting machines underwent public testing for accuracy. A hand count of random races in random precincts is scheduled for November 7 to verify machine counts. The results will be certified by a verification board meeting on November 18.

"It’s been a busy year," Bahr commented, "and it’s almost over. I just want everyone to know they can trust our election team to get it right."

The election team comprises full-time staff and around 60 temporary employees assisting with public operations. Additionally, Bahr's office has recruited and trained 1,000 election judges—equally representing Republicans and Democrats—to manage the county's 105 polling places on November 5.

Key issues drawing attention from St. Charles County voters include the presidential race and Amendment 3.