How do I register to vote?
You may register to vote at the Election Commission Office in Room 106, Newton City Hall. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm and Tuesday evenings until 8:00 pm. If it is more convenient, you may request a mail-in voter registration form. Forms are available at most public libraries in the State.
Does my voter registration follow me if I move from one community to another?
No. Your voter registration does not follow you. You must register to vote in Newton. The Election Office will notify your previous community of your changed voter registration. Your voter activity history will follow you through the State voter registry system.
When do I vote in the City of Newton?
You may search this information by visiting the Election Commission web page on the City of Newton website. Click on “What precinct am I in?” Also posted is the list of polling locations by wards and precincts.
What is the last day to register to vote prior to an election?
The last day to register is twenty days prior to the election. The Election Commission is open on the last evening to register until 8:00 pm. For further information, call the Election Commission Office at (617) 796-1350.
Do I have to change back to unenrolled status if I vote in a primary election?
No. Due to recent changes, you will not lose your unenrolled status if you vote in a primary election. For questions regarding your voter registration status, call the Election Commission at (617) 796-1350.
What hours are the polls open?
For all elections in the City of Newton, polls are open from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Where can I find information regarding elections?
You may visit the City of Newton Election Commission web page for updated information. Also, the Massachusetts Secretary of State’s Election Division can answer questions regarding federal and state elections. The phone number is (617) 727-2828.
How can I get an absentee ballot?
Absentee ballot requests can be made at the Election Commission Office or by sending a letter of request with an original signature (no faxes or e-mails). Permanently disabled citizens can be put on a permanent list if a doctor’s note in forwarded to the Election Office. They will be sent an application every year thereafter. For further information, visit the Election Commission web page.
Can you take my son or daughter off of the voting list?
Only if they inform us in writing that they do not wish to vote in Newton anymore by sending us a letter or e-mail.
Are Election Commission records public information?
Records of residents over 17 years of age are public information. Resident lists or disks can be purchased for $25.00. The updated Residents List is available in July, whereas census disks are updated throughout the year.
Can I submit my census data by telephone?
No. Please return your original census form. This information must be returned for our permanent records.
What does the “U” represent in the political party column on the census form?
The “U” identifies the individual as an unenrolled or independent voter.
What does the Election Commission do when there is no election?
As soon as the last election is finished, the Election Commission starts compiling census data. The new year for census starts in January. The office receives census data on a daily basis from residents in the city which is entered into the state computer system. It is very important for residents to return their census forms in order for the Election Office to compile the census list and disks. This information is ready for the public by July 1st.
