SAN DIEGO — If you’re taking the time to vote, you want to ensure your voice is heard. With Election Day just five days away, it's important to know that you can verify whether your ballot has been received.
Ninety percent of voters in San Diego County cast their votes by mail.
"We have a history of safe and secure elections," said Shawn Brom, the Assistant Registrar of Voters.
America stands on the brink of a new administration as voters decide on the next Commander-in-Chief, along with propositions and measures that could raise the minimum wage and modernize public schools.
"It's empowering to participate in the forward progress of the United States," said voter Victor Ibarra in Kearny Mesa. He was among many in a steady line of voters on Thursday, ensuring their voices are heard.
Linda Hamshire expressed her concerns: "I just want to make sure it's here and it's safe."
So far, 680,000 ballots have been received by mailbox or drop box, and another 10,000 San Diegans have voted in person, leaving over a million ballots yet to be counted.
"If you would like to track your ballot, go to www.sdvote.com and select 'Where's My Ballot?'" Brom advised. There, you can enter your home address, zip code, and birthday. You can even sign up for text alerts.
"Your ballot will be scanned and updated to notify us that it has been received," Brom added.
Your ballot must be postmarked by November 5th. If you sent it in weeks ago and it still shows as not received, it's time to contact the Registrar of Voters. You may then need to vote in person. By Saturday, 235 voting centers will be open across the county.
"It will suspend your barcode on the return envelope to ensure that only one ballot is cast," Brom explained.
For added transparency, you can track your ballot online or visit the Registrar of Voters in Kearny Mesa to watch the process live.
Signature verification is the first step, so be sure to sign the envelope early. There could be long lines on Tuesday. Election results must be certified by December 5th.