Thursday, September 25, 2008

Can you Vote? How? When? Where? Why?

As you noticed, I am not covering in my blog many topics that stay on top of the US society hot lists, as TV, sports, or elections. I am not truly interesting in these topics of discussion personally, so I do no feel of writing about. But, refusing to promote my personal political views on the upcoming president elections, I do have my strong points, what would be better for this country, backed up by personal experience, available information, and experience in politics back in Europe, where I was extremely politically active and where at one time I was elected as a member of the Central Committee of one of the Political Parties. All the point of this paragraph is to ask everybody to take part in the elections. Does not matter, what you think, remember - your voice is important. Evil comes to the power by the way of democratic elections in some cases, so thinking “it is not my business” or “I can change nothing” might be a small and tiny step to the disaster.

Two related search queries were today on the top of the list: can i vote and canivote.org. They both refer to the Web site http://www.canivote.org. The Web site is maintained by the National Association of Secretaries of State, the nation’s oldest, nonpartisan professional association for public officials. Here you can find all the information required to ensure that your voice will not be lost due to the incomplete or incorrect voting process. Requirements might be different in different States, or even in different counties of the same State. So, if you care, please care enough to make your homework ahead of time.


General reminder checklist for your convenience:

  1. Be sure you are properly registered.

Most States require voters to register in advance of an election (though some allow voters to register on Election Day). Deadlines range from 3 to 30 days before an election. Find out if you are properly registered, confirm your address, obtain a copy of a voter registration form, and learn about registration deadlines in your state ahead of time.

  1. Be sure you go to the correct polling place.

Remember that in many states, if you vote at the wrong location, your vote will not be counted.

  1. Find out your options for convenient voting.

Many States allow individuals to vote prior to Election Day, either in person or by absentee ballot. Absentee voters typically must request an absentee ballot in advance.

  1. Find out if you are required to show ID.

Every state has identification requirements for at least some categories of voters. Be sure that you are carrying proper personal identification with you.

  1. Review sample ballots and information about candidates and issues.

If you familiarize yourself with the layout and instructions of the ballot, you can prevent mistakes when you go to vote. Some local election officials will provide you a sample ballot if you request one. Also, know who and what you’re voting for - you can research all candidates and ballot issues by contacting local civic groups or visiting www.canivote.org.


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