Voting is easy, it just takes a little planning.
First, determine if you can vote. Age requirements vary by state and are listed here.
Then,register to vote. If you’ve registered in the past, you may need to re-register if you’ve moved, changed your name, changed parties or haven’t voted in more than 4 years. If you’ve moved to a new state, you must re-register and this could require additional things like a new drivers license, so get started early. (If you don’t know if you’re registered, check here.)
While you can register anytime, check the registration deadline if we’re approaching an election. Elections are the Tuesday after the first Monday in November. Registration deadlines dates vary by state, see below:
Next, be informed. Know your candidates and where they stand on the issues. Factual information is hard to come by, which is why I like USAFact’s Voter Center. Here, you’ll find objective, data-driven insights on the issues and where candidates stand.
Finally, get ready to vote on election day. You can find your local polling station here. Your polling station is assigned according to where you live and you can only vote at your assigned station. (If you’re handicapped, you can request an accessible voting location.) If you need a ride, Lyft is offering free and discounted rides to the polls. If you won’t be in town, file for an absentee ballot.
If you work or go to school, it’s a great idea to block the time to ensure you make it to the polls. Check if your state grants time off to vote (many do.) E-mail your boss — here’s an e-mail template to customize (also pasted below) requesting time off. Budget a solid 2 hours.
That’s it! You’re set to vote. May the best candidate win.
REPLACE ITALICS BELOW WITH YOUR INFORMATION
Dear Manager / Boss / Supervisor,
I kindly request time off on the _< morning/afternoon> _of November 6th, 2018 to vote in the US mid-term elections. During this time, if necessary, my work will be covered by < Co-worker name>. Should you need to reach me, I will be available at all times via _< phone and/or e-mail> _at xxx-xxx-xxxx.
Additionally, I ensure the appropriate folks are made aware for continuity of services to customers and clients.
Voting is our most important civic duty. As a result, our state has _< mandated allowable time> _to vote. The full details of our state laws are available hereand here. Should you require me to take paid-time off, I will notify HR of the 2 hours required to vote.
I am hoping this advance notice will allow us to plan for time off without interruption to business critical work. Should we need to discuss additional coverage needs, please let me know.
Thank you for your consideration,
< Employee Name>