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Arizona's 2022 Election Day: Answering your most asked questions

We're answering your questions about ballots, tabulators and other things election.

ARIZONA, USA — After months of primaries and campaign events, Election Day is happening in Arizona.

The midterm election will determine the balance of power in our nation and right here in our state.

12News has already received numerous questions about voting procedures today. Here are our answers.

RELATED: It's Election Day. Where to vote and how to view results in Arizona

Q: If the polls close while you're in line, can you still vote?

Yes.

If you're still in line when the polls close, stay in line. You have the right to vote.

The American Civil Liberties Union advises that this is one of your fundamental rights as a voter.

Q: Should you take a picture of your ballot before you submit it?

No. (If you're at a Vote Center, that is.)

Even though it's legal to take a picture of your early ballot from home, taking any photos or videos within 75 feet of a voting location is illegal according to the secretary of state's website.

If you do think it's necessary to document evidence of a crime or other election-related violation, please let a poll worker know first.

RELATED: Rules for taking photos of your ballot vary by state

Q: Is Katie Hobbs in charge of checking Maricopa County's tabulators?

No, Katie Hobbs is not responsible for county tabulator machines.

Although Hobbs is Arizona's top election official, our state uses a decentralized election system. That means that each county is responsible for managing its own elections. 

The secretary of state's office is responsible for certifying state election results, serves as the filing officer for federal, statewide and legislative candidates and statewide ballot measures.

You can read more here:

RELATED: VERIFY: No, Katie Hobbs is not in charge of checking Maricopa County's tabulators

Q: Are the tabulator machines connected to the internet?

No.

Maricopa County Election officials say the machines are only connected to power, not the internet.

Q: What do I do when a tabulator doesn't read my ballot?

If a tabulator at your vote center malfunctions, officials say you can cast your vote in three different ways, including:

  1. Staying at the vote center and waiting for the tabulator to come back online
  2. Placing your ballot in a secure drop box
  3. Head to another nearby vote center

RELATED: Election Day updates: Officials give update on tabulator issues at some vote centers

Where can I vote?

Polls opened at 6 a.m. and will stay open through 7 p.m.

Decision 2022

Arizonans will go to the polls this November for the midterm elections. Here's everything you need to know leading up to election night.

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