HARTFORD--Two years ago, Hartford and New Haven faced major Election Day problems when voter registration lists arrived late to polling places because absentee voter names had not been crossed off voter lists in time, or because registering to vote took too long and the polls closed before voters could get there.
Vazquez said this year, enrollment lists for Hartford were printed on October 23, and that everything has been completed to avoid problems on Tuesday. She is, however, worried about Election Day registration.
For the first time in a presidential race, Connecticut voters can register on Election Day at designated Election Day Registration Centers. The option was in place for Connecticut's 2014 gubernatorial race, but not for the 2012 presidential election.
Voters will only be able to register at designated community locations -- not polling places -- and should call their local registrars for locations.
New Haven isn't as concerned. After its issues last time, Delores Knight, the New Haven Republican registrar, says, "We will have more people at City Hall working to keep the process running smoothly.
They will also have employees asking people in polling lines if they are registered, and handing out voter cards for those who registered online.
"It's going to be a big turnout, that's one of our biggest concerns," said Secretary of the State Dennis Merrill.
Voters must also be registered by the time the polls close at 8 p.m. Tuesday.
"Even if you've stood in line for over an hour but you're not registered by 8 o'clock, you're not going to get to vote," said Merrill.
"Don't show up at 5 [minutes] to 8 and expect that you'll be able to vote because you might not be able to get registered in time," cautioned Merrill.
In contrast, registered voters will be allowed to vote, as long as they are in line to vote before 8 p.m.
Vazquez says Hartford will have roughly 30 election officials on hand to help with Election Day registration. Hartford is anticipating more than 1,000 will register to vote on Tuesday.
For those who registered to vote online before November 1, make sure to print out your voting card before heading to the polls. If you registered to vote but did not receive a voting card by mail, go back to your confirmation email and make sure to print out the card yourself.
If you plan on registering at your Election Day Registration Center, you must bring proof of identity and residency -- such as your driver's license and a current bill showing your address. Both will be needed to register.
For more information on Election Day registration and locations, click here.
