Hawaii, a beautiful island paradise, operates on its own unique schedule, including its election processes. If you’re participating in Hawaii elections, especially from outside the state, understanding “what time is it in Hawaii” becomes crucial. This guide will walk you through Hawaii’s election system, key dates, and how to keep track of time to ensure your voice is heard.
Hawaii conducts statewide elections in even-numbered years, with the primary election on the second Saturday in August and the general election on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. To stay updated with the precise dates and deadlines, you can always view the election calendar for dates and deadlines. Keep in mind that all election deadlines and times are based on Hawaii Standard Time (HST), which is important to note if you are in a different time zone.
Hawaii operates on a vote-by-mail system, ensuring every registered voter automatically receives their ballot in the mail approximately 18 days before an election. Ballots are sent to the mailing address associated with your voter registration. It is essential to register or update your voter registration to ensure timely receipt of your ballot.
Primary and General Elections in Hawaii
Primary Election: In Hawaii’s primary elections, voters nominate candidates to represent political parties in the general election. Non-partisan candidates can also be nominated if they meet specific qualifications. Hawaii’s unique system allows voters to maintain their right to secrecy by not declaring a political affiliation upon voter registration. However, for the primary election ballot, voters must select a political affiliation to vote for candidates within that chosen party, alongside candidates for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and county contests, regardless of party affiliation.
General Election: The general election is a candidate contest where voters can choose their preferred candidate regardless of political affiliation. This election includes federal, state, county, and Office of Hawaiian Affairs candidates, as well as decisions on State Constitutional Amendments and/or Charter Amendments.
Presidential Elections: Hawaii does not hold a presidential preference primary. Political parties manage their own presidential caucuses to nominate candidates for president and vice-president. For details on participating in these caucuses, you should contact the qualified political parties directly. The Electoral College ultimately elects the president and vice-president of the United States. You can learn more about the Electoral College.
Ranked-Choice Voting in Hawaii
Ranked-choice voting is utilized in Hawaii for any federal election not coinciding with a regularly scheduled primary or general election, and for special elections for vacant county council seats. This system, as defined by HRS § 11-100, allows voters to rank candidates by preference.
How Ranked-Choice Voting Works:
- If a candidate secures a majority (over 50%) of votes in the first round, they win.
- If no candidate achieves a majority, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated.
- Votes for the eliminated candidate are then redistributed to the voters’ next-ranked choice among the remaining candidates.
- This process repeats until a candidate receives a majority of the votes.
This ensures that the elected candidate has the support of a majority of voters, even if their initial first-preference votes were not a majority.
Registering to Vote in Hawaii
To register to vote in Hawaii, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. Citizen
- Be a resident of Hawaii
- Be at least 16 years old. (Pre-registration is allowed at 16, automatic registration upon turning 18).
You can learn more about Voter Registration and complete your registration online.
Voting by Mail in Detail
Keeping Your Registration Current: Since ballots are mailed, it’s vital to keep your voter registration updated with your current mailing address. If you’ve moved or changed your name, update your registration. You can verify your registration status online or by contacting your County Elections Division.
Receiving Your Ballot: Expect to receive your mail ballot packet at least 18 days before Election Day. The packet includes your ballot, a secrecy sleeve, and a prepaid postage return envelope. Voters needing special accommodations can request an electronic ballot through the Voter Registration Application or by contacting their County Elections Division. More information on accessible electronic ballots is available here.
Returning Your Ballot On Time (Hawaii Time): You can return your voted ballot by mail or in person at designated locations within your county. Crucially, your voted ballot must be received by your County Elections Division by 7:00 p.m. Hawaii Time on Election Day. Plan your mail return or in-person drop-off accordingly, especially if you are mailing from outside Hawaii.
Tracking Your Ballot: Stay informed about your ballot’s status by contacting your County Elections Division. You can also sign up for BallotTrax to receive ballot notifications.
Ballot Processing: Upon receiving your returned ballot envelope, your County Elections Division will validate your signature to confirm your identity. Once validated, your ballot is forwarded to state election officials for counting.
Voting at a Voter Service Center: For in-person services, County Elections Divisions operate voter service centers for 10 days leading up to and including Election Day. Services include accessible in-person voting and same-day registration. If you require special assistance, contact the Office of Elections at 453-VOTE (8683).
Frequently Asked Questions about Hawaii Elections
How do I vote in Hawaii elections? Ensure you are a registered voter to receive a ballot by mail. Review the ballot instructions, contests, and candidates, and make your selections. Fold your ballot, place it in the secrecy sleeve, insert it into the return envelope, and sign the envelope. Return your ballot by mail or drop-off before the deadline: 7:00 pm Hawaii Time on Election Day.
When will I receive my ballot? Mail ballot packets are typically sent out at least 18 days before each election.
What if I don’t receive my ballot? Contact your County Elections Division for a replacement ballot if you do not receive yours.
What if I make a mistake on my ballot? Request a replacement ballot from your County Elections Division if you make a mistake, misplace, or damage your original ballot.
Will my vote count if I don’t vote in every contest? Yes, your ballot will still be counted even if you leave contests blank.
Can I change my mind after returning my ballot? No, once your ballot is received by the County Elections Division, it is considered cast and cannot be changed.
Why must I sign the return ballot envelope? Your signature is essential for verifying your identity as the voter and is matched against your voter registration record. An unsigned envelope means your ballot cannot be counted.
How can I receive my ballot if I’m traveling? If you will be away during the election, you can request an absentee ballot to be mailed to an alternate address. Complete an absentee application and specify the mailing address.
Can I still vote in person? Yes, you can vote in person at any voter service center in your county. These centers are open for 10 days leading up to and on Election Day, offering in-person voting, same-day registration, and accessible voting options.
Remember, when participating in Hawaii elections, especially from outside the state, always be mindful of Hawaii Standard Time for all deadlines and important times. Staying informed and acting promptly ensures your vote is counted.
Last Updated: April 8, 2024
