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A mailer from Maricopa County about the Presidential Preference Election.

In traditional primary elections in Arizona, independents can choose to vote a Republican or Democratic ballot.

But the Presidential Preference Election is different. Voters have to be a registered Republican or Democrat, at least temporarily, to participate on March 19.

Tuesday, Feb. 20, is the deadline to change your party affiliation ahead of that election. Early ballots will begin being mailed out on Wednesday.

Maricopa County residents can check their registration at beballotready.vote.

Other important upcoming Presidential Preference Election dates

Feb. 21: Early ballots mailed and early voting begins

March 8: Last day to request an early ballot

March 12: Last day to mail back ballot

March 19: Election Day

Source: Maricopa County Election Department