ballot access

Election Day is fast approaching. On November 5th, the nation will elect the 47th president, as well as a number of other candidates in local and state elections. Auburn leaders are sending out a few reminders about county, state and federal elections to assist residents during this political process.

While the practice of ballot collection is legal in 35 states, the rules vary significantly from state to state. In some states, the laws are so vague that they are open to interpretation. Alabama is the only state where only the voter is permitted to return the ballot unless there is an emergency situation.

The first general election ballots for the presidential race are going out as Alabama officials begin mailing them to absentee voters with the Nov. 5 contest less than two months away. Wednesday's milestone is a sign of how quickly Election Day is approaching.

Alabama officials approved legislation to ensure President Joe Biden will appear on the state's November ballot, mirroring accommodations the state made four years ago for then-President Donald Trump. The House of Representatives voted 93-0 for the legislation. Republican Governor Kay Ivey signed the bill into law the same day, a spokeswoman said.

Governor Kay Ivey is giving approval to the so-called absentee voting bill, which makes it a misdemeanor to distribute a pre-filled absentee ballot application to a voter or return another voter's completed application. The legislation also outlaws paid assistance with absentee ballot applications.

An independent candidate trying to run for former U.S. Rep. Jo Bonner's seat is suing the state.James Hall of Stapleton says he filed suit against the…