BANGOR, Maine — With Election Day nearing, local and state officials are emphasizing the importance of making sure ballots are returned securely.
The Maine Department of the Secretary of State is investigating a ballot harvesting incident reported by the City of Bangor.
"It was alarming to me because I knew that was against the law," Bangor City Clerk Lisa Goodwin said.
According to city staff, at least one person was knocking on doors offering to return absentee ballots for residents, which is illegal.
"That is illegal under Maine law. No one can engage in what is called 'ballot harvesting,' meaning that no third party should be going door-to-door to pick up ballots," Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows said.
Ballots should only be returned by you, a family member, or your previously-designated third party.
They should be brought to your local municipal clerk's office, ballot drop boxes, or sent in by mail.
Goodwin is responsible for ensuring all ballots in Bangor are secure.
"As a voter, you need to protect your own ballot, and when you receive that from us make sure you are bringing that back in a manner that is acceptable," Goodwin said.
According to Goodwin, over 8,000 ballots have been returned to the Bangor city clerk's office so far.
"Our elections are very secure. Absentee ballots are traced and we anticipate a free, safe, and secure Election Day," Secretary Bellows said.
According to the secretary of state's office, more than 325,000 voters across the state have cast their ballots. As residents continue to submit there ballots, she says it's important to protect voter security.
"We encourage you to use common sense. There are some bad actors out there or even criminals that seek to take advantage of people, lie to people, or misinform people about our elections. Use trusted sources of information," Secretary Bellows said.
You have until 8 p.m. on Nov. 5 to cast your ballot. If you would like to learn more information about voting, click here.