Special Election Explained: When, How & Why To Vote Ellen for Ward 5 Councilor

Hello! I’m Ellen Moorhouse. I’m running for City Councilor in Springfield’s Ward 5 as part of this historic special election, and I’m asking for your vote. Well technically, two votes – first on August 16th and then again on September 13th.

Below, I’ll explain when to vote, how to vote, and why I hope your vote is for me.

When to Vote

Because this is a special election with seven (!) candidates running, Springfield is having a preliminary election on August 16th. That election will whittle the field to two candidates, and I’ll need your vote then to be one of them.

Then, I’m asking for your vote once more on September 13th: the final general election. If we win then, I will be your next Ward 5 City Councilor!

Quick note: Neither of these dates actually fall on MA’s statewide primary day. So it’s all the more important that we each stick these dates in our calendars and don’t forget to vote! (I’ll also be sending out reminders over email – just sign up here.)

How to Vote

First off, you’ve got to be registered to vote here in Springfield. It’s easy to register online or visit the Springfield Election Commission Office (City Hall, 36 Court St. Rm. 8) and apply in-person. The deadline to register for the preliminary election is August 6th and the deadline to register for the final election is September 3rd.

Want to double-check your status? The Massachusetts Secretary of State has you covered.

Going to be on vacation on one of those dates? No worries! You can easily vote early or absentee, and in fact I recommend voting early for this election.

To vote by mail, you just need to fill out a quick application and then email it (elections@springfieldcityhall.com) or fax (413-787-6186) it in. Once you receive your ballot you mail it in or drop it off at City Hall. To vote “in-person absentee” you can just visit the Election Commission Office, apply there, and then vote right there in person all at once. The process is easy, quick, and painless. The deadline to apply to vote absentee for the preliminary election is August 9th, and I recommend specifying that you want to vote-by-mail for “all elections” this year, so you only have to fill out the application once!

Of course, you can also vote in-person for the preliminary election (August 16th) and the final election (September 3rd.) Polling hours will be 7AM-8PM, and you can find your polling locations here.

Why to Vote 

Here’s my quick pitch, and you can always read my policy platform or read more about me for why I’m running:

Simply put, I’m running to be your next Ward 5 Councilor to increase the quality of life for all residents and families. Safe, healthy neighborhoods have and will always be my priority as a public servant, and I humbly ask for your vote to bring new energy and a new voice to the Springfield City Council. 

So please, on August 16th and September 13th (or earlier if you’re voting absentee!) vote Ellen Moorhouse for Ward 5 City Councilor in Springfield, MA.