With the November 5th election date coming on fast, know that key voter registration and absentee ballot deadlines are happening even sooner. Whether voting in person, voting early or by mail NOW is the time to know the timelines and get your ducks in a row.
Have A Plan Of Action
In the county where I live for example, the voter registration deadline is October 7th. Early voting starts just two days later on October 9th. If one wants to request an absentee ballot, the deadline is October 25th. If I waited until the week of the election to figure out my plan it would simply be too late.
If for any reason you are unsure of how and when you will be voting, here are some steps to ensure your vote will be counted this year.
Verify Your Registration Status
Even if you have voted successfully like clockwork in past elections it’s important to check with your local registrar of voters and make sure your voting status is still active and good to go. In many locations around the country, political parties have been challenging some classes of voter registrations and seeking to remove them from the roles.
It’s important you check with your local county registrar of voters online, not a third party website or source. In most cases this can be verified quickly.
Verify Your Voting Method And Timelines
If you vote early, vote by mail or in person it’s important to make sure you know how and when that will be happening. Make sure you know when your ballot is being mailed out so you know when to expect it. Be sure you know the deadlines for mailing it in. Know where the drop boxes are if you use them.
Whether you vote early or on election day, check with your local county registrar of voters to make sure you know the locations and times to go. Never depend on a third party website or information source.
Have You Moved?
If you have moved since the last time you voted or registered to vote you should make sure your registration status has been updated. If you are in a new county or state you will most likely need to register again.
At the very least you need to update your address if you moved within the same county or city as your voting location will likely be different. Furthermore mail forwarding won’t always get your mail-in ballot to you automatically. Because you won’t likely be able to fix this issue on election day, now is the time to iron all this out.
Register To Vote
Voting is not only a divine right for citizens of the United States but it’s also a deep responsibility. If you are eligible to vote, now is the time to be a part of the deal. Get registered and do it soon. Voting doesn’t have to be overwhelming or overly time consuming. You can always ask a trusted friend to help you.
Most important is getting it done. Like I said before, always register with your local government registrar of voters. Don’t depend on a third party to handle your registration – especially this close to the election.
Make Sure You Are Ready!
Every election cycle we are told that, “this is the most important of our lifetimes.” It always is and in many cases it’s the truth. No matter how you vote, it’s imperative that you do so. If’ you’re already engaged, awesome. Good Job. Just ask you take one extra step this week and make sure your plan is solid and you are ready to go!
Smoker of fine tires, eater of natural foods, connoisseur of aromatic leathers, pusher of limits.