The upcoming Nov. 5 General Election will be the 14th election I have overseen as your Clerk and Recorder. Amongst those, this one will not only be the most closely watched, but will matter the most. We have never been more prepared and ready to run an election. We are not only ready to protect our democracy, but demonstrate to the nation how it’s done properly: secure, transparent, and accessible, with proof that every vote counts.

Ballots are mailed to every active registered voter Oct. 11. And although Nov. 5 is Election Day, in Colorado, we do not have to call off work to beat the clock and wait in line for hours to vote. Take advantage of the fact that we have not one, but 22 days to research and return our ballots, in person at any of 39 vote centers, by mail, or at one of 45 secure, 24/7 drop boxes by 7pm Nov. 5.

Denver has the most accessible elections processes in the country. We are demonstrating how elections should be administered everywhere, even in the most difficult circumstances. Let’s show that Denver’s elections can provide an ideal national universal voting model that is secure and accessible, no matter where you live.

As the Chief Elections Officer for the City and County of Denver, my highest priority is to ensure fair and free elections, and I have for the past 13 elections. I want to make it unequivocally clear that this priority does not change based on any candidate, measure, or initiative on the ballot.

Our elections are secure, safe, fair, and accurate. We have multiple processes in place to ensure equipment is functioning properly before and after the election, which is overseen by myself and bipartisan board members from the Republican and Democratic parties.

This fall’s ballot is the longest in Denver’s history, with three double-sided 11”x17” pages to accommodate all the candidates and 25 ballot questions. So don’t wait until the last minute to start researching the issues—you have three whole weeks to make your choices and return your ballot by 7pm on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

You can learn more about our processes, find voting locations, get answers to frequently asked questions, and even sign up to track your ballot at DenverVotes.org. You’ll also find times and locations for our Democracy Town Halls throughout the city this month. Come by and pick up a “Let’s Vote” window or yard sign and a Do-It-Yourself voting party in a bag. Denver elections are among the most accessible, secure, safe, and accurate in the country. This election season don’t wait to make your voice heard. Get your ballots returned early, Denver!

In solidarity,

Paul Lopez, Denver Clerk and Recorder