YOUR GUIDE TO VOTING IN THE 2020 ELECTION
The 2020 election matters, and it matters a lot. Make no mistake: in this election, you’re voting to keep democracy alive. It’s not just a vote between two parties or policy platforms but rather a referendum on the value system of the United States. Now, with the imminent confirmation of a new conservative Supreme Court justice, the need for action is only growing.
So, in that spirit, we’ve put together a little info packet that can help you get ready for the upcoming election!! Check below for dates, links, and more to help you get ready for November 3rd!
VOTER REGISTRATION
The first step to voting is getting registered. If you are not registered to vote, do it right now. In some states, you can register to vote online! For a list of states offering this service as well as links to reach their platforms, check out THIS LINK.
Now, voter registration deadlines vary depending on what state you’re in and how you’re choosing to vote. Bloomberg has put together an online tool that not only shows you all of these dates but also tracks your registration status and can help you register if you haven’t already. Find it HERE.
If this tool doesn’t work for you, there are SO MANY OTHERS you can choose from!! Below we’ve compiled a list of websites that offer quick and easy voter registration services. It might only take two minutes out of your day, but trust me when I say it will likely be one of the most important things you do in your life. This election is going to be a close one. And the outcome depends on all of us being prepared. Moral of the story, we want you to vote. Get registered at any of these sites:
Bonus: text 384-387 to register over text with HelloVote
MAIL-IN/ABSENTEE BALLOTS
Because of the current COVID crisis, this election will be one dominated by absentee voting. While Donald Trump may try to spread falsehoods about the integrity of this vote-by-mail system, it has actually been around since the 19th century. Once you’ve registered to vote, the next thing you need to do is request your absentee ballot. You can do that here at Vote.org.
Once you’ve received your ballot, make sure you then fill it in correctly and return it to your election officials as soon as possible. HERE is a list of deadlines for absentee ballots! MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THEM POSTMARKED WELL BEFORE (OR AT THE VERY LEAST, BEFORE) THE DEADLINE TO ENSURE YOUR VOTE IS COUNTED.
IF YOU’RE GOING TO THE POLLS
Voting this year is going to look different. Many will experience trouble voting not only because of COVID but because of hostility towards voters themselves. Many states are making it harder for people to cast their ballots, but remember that being able to vote is your right. Check HERE for a step-by-step guide on what to do if you’re intimidated at the polls or told you cannot vote.
Another thing to expect this year are long lines, especially as polling stations try to keep up social distancing practices. If you plan on voting in person, make sure you’ve got everything you need for a day waiting in line. Once you’re there, DO NOT LEAVE UNTIL YOU HAVE CAST YOUR BALLOT! Wait all night if you have to, but just make sure you vote. If you’re unsure about where your polling station is, you can check HERE.
Things to bring to the polls:
Photo ID (this is REQUIRED in some states, but you should bring some no matter what. check HERE for additional information)
MASK!
Water + snacks
Portable phone charger
Anything else you’ll need to get comfortable in a long line
GET INVOLVED
Helping out in this election comes in more forms than just voting. For example, in the absence of traditional door knocking, campaigns are relying on phonebanking to get in contact with voters. YOU can help out with this process! If you want to make calls for Joe and Kamala, check out THIS LINK. If you want to put even more time in, volunteer for a campaign! The GAP Project is an organization that is matching volunteers with campaigns in need, and it is a great starting place for first-timers.
