Voting is a privilege and a responsibility. It is the backbone of democracy! Voting is how we ensure that the will of the people is heard. If you don't vote, then you are actively choosing not to participate in our political process and, in my mind, lose your right to complain about how the election turns out. You may think that your vote doesn't matter, but you couldn't be more wrong! No, one individual vote probably won't make a difference. BUT, if a bunch of people choose not to participate, then you are leaving so much power off of the table. I know voting might be new or weird or scary, but I'm here for you! I'm going to let you in on my secrets on how to slay election day and ROCK YOUR VOTE.
1. Check your registration
Make sure that you are registered to vote. You can check your registration online with your state. Fun Fact: You can also check other people's voter registration if you're trying to creep. For most states, the online registration date has passed, but you can still register in person!
2. Find your polling place
Your polling place is determined by your address that you used when you registered to vote. This address has to match the one on you driver's license. You can Google your polling place by entering your address or you can check it with your voter registration.
3. Research ALL of your candidates
Obviously, the Presidential election is really important and most of us have probably learned all we need to know to choose our candidate. What about down the ballot? Make sure you know who is running for mayor, the House of Representatives, and even the school board. These races are much more likely to influence you and your community directly. Go to Vote411.org and enter your address to see all the people who are going to be on your ballot. The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization that sends surveys to candidates so you can compare their answers and know who you're voting for.
4. Encourage others to vote
Don't just vote, but help others get out and vote, too. Offer rides to people from your hometown, drive your grandma to the polls, or simply say something when someone tells you that their vote doesn't matter. Be a champion of democracy and encourage others to exercise their rights!
5. Watch out for voter intimidation
Always watch out for voter intimidation. If you see anything that looks like voter intimidation or suppression, tell a poll worker. People are allowed to gather at polling places but are generally not allowed to be within 100 feet of actual voting booths. You can also call the Election Protection hotline or the Justice Department hotline at the numbers listed below.
English: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683)
Spanish: 888-VE-Y-VOTA (888-839-8682)
Asian Languages: 888-API-VOTE (888-274-8683)
Arabic: 844-418-1682
Justice Department voting rights discrimination hotline: 800-253-3931
6. Look the part
Represent your favorite candidate by wearing their merch! Wear their buttons, t-shirts, and hats to show your support. Maybe shop around before election day for the nasty woman or bad hombre in your life.
7. VOTE
Go vote! You are knowledgeable and prepared to Rock the Vote! Whether this is your first vote or your fifteenth, you are ready to exercise your right to vote.
So get out on November 8th and SLAY. ELECTION. DAY.
