All Rhode Island voters should know that mail ballot applications are available for download from vote.ri.gov and from the local board of canvassers and that they should apply for a mail ballot as soon as possible. Recently, a federal district court judge ruled that mail-in ballots do not have to be witnessed or notarized, ensuring that all registered voters can vote by mail in the upcoming Primary Election on Sept. 8 and General Election on Nov. 4.

I urge Bristol voters to get to know the candidates running locally. There are many candidates in both the primary and general election who are dedicated to working in service to the town. Choosing leaders whose goal it is to be of service is even more critical now as we grapple with the impacts of COVID-19 on our schools, our seniors, and our local businesses.

I fear that the public discourse on the pages of this paper will cause some voters to simply turn away as the discussion gets ugly. I urge all Bristolians to look past the rhetoric and seek the leaders who have a vision for our town that is focused on service and solutions as we face the challenges of our future and vote for them.

Tracy Ramos
Bristol