Happy National Voter Education week! National Voter Education Week is a digital week of action and celebration of voting that brings joy to the democratic process while helping everyone make their voices heard by equipping them with the tools, information, and confidence they need to cast their ballots.
Monday was #VoteReady. Most states require you to sign up to vote in elections, a process called voter registration. Registration is the first step to being a voter. If you are not registered to vote, you can do so here. You will need your driver’s license or a State identification card to register to vote. Not sure if you are registered to vote, you can check your registration status here. If you are a Saint Mary’s student at the College, you have the option to register at your residence on campus or back at home.
Today, Tuesday, is #MailReady. Voting by mail is sometimes referred to as “voting from home” or “absentee voting.” Different states have different rules around it, but generally, you receive your ballot in the mail, fill it out at home (or wherever is convenient!), and then you return it, either by mailing it or by hand-delivering it to an elections office or an official, secure drop box. You can request your ballot now in every state in the U.S. Your ballot may not be delivered right away, as each state has its own timeline for sending out ballots.
If you are a registered voter in New Jersey, California, Oregon, Colorado, Utah, Hawaii, Nevada, Vermont, or Washington, you will automatically receive a ballot at the mailing address listed on your voter registration. Make sure that your mailing address is up to date by checking your voter registration status.
Voting laws are constantly being updated, so make sure you have the most up-to-date information, and learn about the absentee ballot rules in your state. You can also find more information about voting by mail here.
