Planning To Vote By Mail? Here’s What Williams County Voters Need To Know

As election season picks up in Williston and across western North Dakota, one topic that came up repeatedly during last week’s candidate forums was absentee voting in Williams County.

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Important Absentee Ballot Deadlines Approaching

As the 2026 Primary Election quickly approaches, county officials are reminding voters that there are several important deadlines and rule changes they need to know if they plan to cast an absentee ballot this year.

The 2026 Primary Election is now less than a month away, and many residents are already making plans for how they will vote. For voters who prefer the convenience of voting from home, absentee ballots remain an option, but timing will be critical.

According to the Williams County Auditor’s Office, anyone who has already applied for an absentee ballot for the 2026 Primary Election does not need to do anything further at this time. Ballots will automatically be mailed out to approved applicants.

However, residents who have not yet submitted an application still have time. The final day absentee ballots will be mailed to applicants is May 29. Officials encourage voters not to wait until the last minute, especially if they plan to return their ballot by mail.

There is also an option for in-person absentee voting. Voters may apply for and pick up absentee ballots directly from the Williams County Auditor’s Office counter through June 8.

Read More: Williston North Dakota Police Sound the Alarm on New Fake Court Notice Scam

New Absentee Ballot Deadline Change Could Impact Williams County Voters

One of the biggest points of confusion involves the deadline for returning completed absentee ballots. County officials stress that all absentee ballots must be physically received by the Auditor’s Office no later than 7 p.m. Central Time on Tuesday, June 9, which is Election Day.

This marks a significant change from previous years, when postmark dates sometimes played a larger role. Because of that change, mailing ballots at the last minute could create problems for voters. Officials strongly recommend mailing ballots early enough to guarantee arrival before the June 9 deadline.

Ballot Drop Boxes Are Available Around Williams County

For voters looking for additional return options, Williams County has five secure ballot drop boxes located throughout the county.

• Grenora City Hall | 204 Main St, Grenora
• Ray City Hall | 101 Main St, Ray
• Tioga City Hall | 16 1st Street NE, Tioga
• TISA Building | 331 4th Ave E, Trenton (on north side of building)
• Williams County Administration Building | 206 E Broadway, Williston (by south entrance)

Ballots may also be returned directly to the Auditor’s Office counter.

With several contested races generating strong local interest this year, election officials are encouraging residents to make a voting plan now rather than waiting until the deadlines are close.