How to Vote
Remember: Those who don't vote have no right to complain.
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Things You'll Need
- Roll Call Online
- Newspaper Subscriptions
- Postage Stamps
- Voter Registration Forms
- Pens And Pencils
- Computers
Instructions
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Visit your state's official Web site (www.state.xx.us, where xx is your state's postal abbreviation) or contact your local city hall for information about registering to vote.
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Pay attention to the news media, campaign materials and voting guides to educate yourself about the issues and the candidates as Election Day approaches.
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Look on your voter registration card to find the address and hours of operation of your polling place.
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Fill out a sample ballot to use as a reference at your polling place.
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Visit your polling place during polling hours on Election Day.
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Follow officials' directions about how to cast your vote properly. Voting systems vary from county to county.
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Tips & Warnings
Many jurisdictions have laws on the books stating that private employers must allow their employees time off for voting purposes. Check with your state's official Web site for more information.
If you know that you will not be in town on Election Day, you can vote using an absentee ballot. Contact your local county officials for details.
If you recently moved and forgot to register in your new district, it is possible that you are still registered and able to vote in your previous district.
In many states, you have the option of registering to vote when you apply for a driver's license or other state services. Also, public libraries, post offices and public schools often have the forms needed to register to vote.
You must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen to vote.
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Comments
View all 6 Comments-
Mark Ferbinski
May 24, 2009
Interesting article. -
andre7514
Nov 01, 2008
I know I need to vote, awesome advice! 5'stars
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jcdale
Oct 21, 2008
Step 2 in How To Vote needs serious examination! I listened to the media, etc. Then I went online in search of voting records for each candidate, State & Federal, only to find out that they only tell you what they think you need to hear! EVERYONE should do their own RESEARCH! You'll be surprised at what you never heard on T.V. Jeannie
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MommyBear
Oct 08, 2008
Excellent advice. Research is so important in making a decision when voting on the issues and candidates. Know the origins of the proposals and the history of the candidates to find out what they "truly stand for." You're so right. Thank you! I just gave this article five stars!
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Jan 26, 2006
The common saying that "If you don't vote you have no right to complain," is erroneous. Voting is a citizen's privilege, not an obligation. On the other hand, paying taxes is a citizen's obligation. That is to say that if you don't vote, but paid your taxes on time, you have the right to complain.
