Surge in Berlin Mail-In Ballots Mirrors Past Election
In Berlin, a significant number of voters are opting to cast their ballots by mail in the upcoming federal election, mirroring the trend observed four years ago. According to the state election board, as of Sunday, 779,442 mail-in ballot applications have been issued, representing 32.1% of the 2.4 million eligible voters.
In the 2021 federal election, including the 2024 partial re-run, 36.2% of Berlin voters had applied for mail-in ballots. However, it remains unknown whether all who applied returned their completed ballots before the deadline.
Due to the earlier election date this year, the deadline for mail-in ballot applications has been shortened from six to approximately two weeks. Voters can still submit applications online, by mail, or in person at district election offices until Friday at 3 PM.
To ensure timely receipt of their ballots, the Lichtenberg district office advises against applying by mail at this point. Instead, they recommend the most reliable option: applying for mail-in ballots directly at district election offices. At these offices, voters can also cast their ballots in person.
Stephan Bröchler, state election officer, emphasizes that the safest way to vote before election day is to request mail-in ballots directly at district election offices. This also provides voters with the opportunity to cast their ballots immediately on site.
Tips for Mail-In Voting:
- Apply for mail-in ballots as soon as possible to ensure timely receipt.
- Do not apply by mail if the election is within two weeks, as postal delays may cause ballots to arrive late.
- Apply online, by email, or in person at district election offices.
- For the most secure option, apply in person and cast your ballot immediately at the office.
- Complete the ballot carefully and mail it back before the deadline.
- If mailing the ballot, allow for sufficient postage and consider using certified mail to ensure tracking.
- Check the status of your ballot online or by contacting the election office to verify receipt.
Key Dates:
- Deadline for mail-in ballot applications: Friday, 3 PM
- Election day: Sunday
