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Date: 10/26/2022
SOUTHWICK – Election Day isn’t until Nov. 8, but voters are already making their voice heard.
Early voting in the state election started Oct. 22 in cities and towns across Massachusetts, and continues until Nov. 4. The ballot includes statewide contested races for governor and lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, treasurer and auditor.
Local candidates include incumbent U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, a Democrat, and Republican challenger Dean Martilli, and an open race for governor’s councilor pitting Republican John Comerford against Democrat Tara Jacobs.
Though Southwick is currently represented by state Sen. John Velis, it was redistricted this year and voters will instead help choose a new senator for an open seat in a Berkshires-centered district. The candidates are Democrat Paul Mark and independent Brendan Phair.
For the state House, voters in Southwick have a choice between incumbent state Rep. Nicholas Boldyga, a Republican, and Democratic challenger Anthony Russo.
Southwick residents will also help decide four statewide ballot questions. Question 1 would establish a 4 percent surtax on incomes above $1 million, added to the existing 5 percent income tax. Question 2 would require dental insurers to spend at least 83 percent of premiums on dental care, rather than administrative payments. Question 3 would increase the number of liquor sales licenses a single company can own from nine to 15. Question 4 would confirm (“yes”) or repeal (“no”) the state law allowing residents without legal immigration status to receive driver’s licenses.
In-person early voting is available every weekday and Saturday, in the Town Hall auditorium at 454 College Hwy., Southwick. Remaining times are noon to 4:30 p.m. each day through Oct. 28; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 29; 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1; 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 2; 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 3; and 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 4.
Polls will be open statewide 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. in all cities and towns on Nov. 8. Any registered voter who has not yet voted can cast a ballot that day.
The last day to register to vote is Oct. 29. The last day to obtain an early voting ballot by mail is Nov. 1 at 5 p.m.