Gilda’s top ten voting tips

The election is just four days away, and I know you are all planning to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 6. Voting is one of the most important and effective things you can do to shape public policy.

Unfortunately, voting can still be challenging and intimidating for some. But it is your right, and I urge you to exercise it. Here are some tips that can make voting a little easier.

1. Find out where you vote and make sure your polling place hasn’t changed.
2. Make a plan to vote. Thinking about what time of day you’ll go and how you’ll get there ahead of time makes you much more likely to vote.
3. Don’t be late, be there by 8. The polls close at 8:00 p.m., but if you are in line at 8:00 p.m., you will be allowed to vote.
4. You can view your ballot now.
5. You can bring your kids to the polls. Don’t let a lack of child care prevent you from voting.
6. Although still a little complicated, college students can choose where they vote—back home or at school.
7. Bring photo ID…but you still have the right to vote without one. If you forget to bring a photo ID to the polls or do not have one, you are still allowed to vote by asking to sign an affidavit of identity.
8. You may be eligible to vote absentee. If you will be out of town on Election Day or will not be able to make it to the polls because of illness, disability, or religious beliefs, you can vote absentee. You can also vote by absentee for any reason if you are age 60 years old or older. Be sure you understand the process first!
9. Individuals with a criminal record can still vote, including convicted felons who have served their time or those who are on probation or parole.
10. Don’t go it alone! Make sure your friends and family get out to vote, too. Call them, text them, SnapChat them, send a carrier pigeon, whatever it takes to be sure they, too, make their voices heard.

This election is extremely important. We are voting for our next governor, our federal, state and local elected officials, and for important proposals designed to make the fundamental right of voting more accessible. The League is a proponent of Proposal 2 and Proposal 3 because we know that good policy begins with fair elections. 

In addition to using these tips to prepare for Election Day, I also encourage you to use the League’s candidate questions to engage with your candidates and inform your vote this last few days. Democracy is the bedrock of our country and voting is a right that women and people of color fought hard for. Do not take voting for granted or let anyone convince you that your vote doesn’t matter, because I assure you it does.