Massachusetts Mail-In Voting Expenses in 2021: A Breakdown
In a recent report released by Massachusetts Secretary of State William Galvin’s office, it was revealed that over 34% of voters in the general election opted for mail-in ballots. This shift in voting behavior has shed light on the cost implications and popularity of mail-in voting in the state.
Cost Breakdown of Mail-In Voting
The report highlighted that Massachusetts spent slightly over $8 million to administer mail-in voting for both the primary and general elections in 2024. This cost excludes expenses related to printing ballots, envelopes, assembling ballot kits, and reimbursing local election officials for unfunded mandates. A significant portion of this expenditure, approximately $4 million, was allocated to covering postage for voters to return their primary and general election ballots.
Voter Turnout Statistics
During the primaries, a total of 841,940 people, constituting 16.7% of registered voters, cast their ballots. Out of these, 520,056 opted for mail-in voting, while 28,908 and 292,976 ballots were cast during in-person early voting and polling places, respectively. Moving on to the general election, a total of 3,512,930 ballots were cast, representing an impressive overall voter turnout of 68.3%. Of these, 1,203,106 were mail-in ballots, with 597,029 and 1,712,795 ballots being cast during in-person early voting and at polling places, respectively.
Expert Commentary on Mail-In Voting
Ross Cristantiello, a seasoned general assignment news reporter for Boston.com, has been covering a wide range of topics including local politics, crime, and the environment since 2022. With his expertise, he provides valuable insights into the implications of the increasing popularity of mail-in voting and its financial impact on election administration.
As we delve deeper into the realm of mail-in voting, it becomes evident that this voting method has not only gained traction among voters but has also incurred significant costs for states like Massachusetts. The intricate balance between accessibility and financial feasibility in elections remains a crucial point of discussion as we navigate the evolving landscape of voting practices.