Entry 291 of 1039
By Think! Christiansburg On October 23, 2008 at 7:08 AM

As reported by the Virginia Coalition for Open Government (VCOG), there is a rumor going around which is false.  As summarized by VCOG:

"A false rumor has been circulating about Virginia's absentee ballots  not being counted if one candidate is winning the election by a large  margin. This rumor is false. In Virginia all absentee ballots,  properly cast, will be counted. Voters may vote absentee either by  mail or in person.  For a ballot to be considered 'properly cast' the  voter must follow specific instructions included with the ballot.  For example, the absentee ballot must be sealed in a signed envelope  and placed in another envelope for mailing purposes. If the envelope  is not sealed then it would not be considered properly cast."

Having been at an event at Virginia Tech and hearing this statement made by a student in September, it seems timely to repeat that all of Virginia's absentee ballots are counted -- regardless of how close the presidential or senate races might be.

Another article about this false rumor can be read here.  This is an important aspect of voting rights to understand because many people may vote early due to work, travel or health issues, as allowed by Virginia law.   Other voter issues relative to Virginia may be found here and the Commonwealth of Virginia Absentee Ballot Application Form and Instructions are here.