Voters across Berks County will head to the polls Tuesday.
They will help select their parties’ nominees for U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, governor, lieutenant governor, all state House seats, state Senate seats in even-numbered districts and for Democratic and Republican state committee.
Pennsylvania operates a closed primary — meaning only voters registered as Democrats or Republicans will receive a ballot to select nominees to represent their party in the general election.
But all registered voters in Reading, regardless of party affiliation, will get to vote on two ballot questions. One would eliminate the ability of the city charter to place taxation limitations on the governing body, and another would eliminate the requirement for the public works director to be a registered civil engineer.
Here’s what voters need to know before heading to the polls:
Where to vote: Each voter is assigned to a specific polling place. Voters unsure of where to go can look up their polling place by visiting the county election services website.
When to vote: Polls are open Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Anyone in line by 8 p.m. will be allowed to vote.
Who is on the ballot: Voters can check out the sample ballot for their voting precinct by visiting the county election services website or by checking out this candidate guide the Reading Eagle compiled.
Can I bring my mail ballot to the polls: Mail ballots will not be accepted at any polling location. All absentee and no-excuse mail ballots must be placed in an official ballot drop box at the Berks County Services Center or Berks County Agricultural Center, or turned in to the county election services office by 8 p.m. on election day.
What voters may/may not bring: Voters cannot bring campaign signs or distribute materials within 10 feet of a polling place entrance. They may wear political apparel as long as they don’t draw attention to it. Voters legally allowed to carry firearms may do so unless the polling place is in a location where guns are prohibited, such as a school.
Voter intimidation: It’s illegal to harass, threaten, discriminate against or get aggressive with voters inside or outside polling places. Such behavior should be reported to the county elections office and district attorney. Voters can also contact the state elections office at 877-868-3772.
Questions or issues: Call the state elections office at 877-868-3772 or the county elections office at 610-478-6490.
