ST. PAUL, MN (KDAL) - Secretary of State Mark Ritchie says over 180,000 absentee ballots have been requested and over 114,000 have already been returned by the voter and accepted.  There are several reasons that qualify for an absentee ballot in Minnesota including absence from your voting precinct, illness or disability.  Voters who are eligible are encouraged to apply for their ballot materials as soon as possible or vote absentee in person at county auditor or city clerk offices.  Get more information at www.mnvotes.org