Did you know research has shown that thinking through a voting plan can increase the likelihood of a voter actually voting by almost 10%!
Here’s the thing. Lots of people intend to vote. But when the day comes, some don’t. There are lots of reasons why some people never make it to the polls. But we know that one thing that helps overcome the problem of meaning to vote but just not getting around to it, is when people take a moment to figure out exactly what their voting plan will be. The power of thinking through their day and making a plan is immense. It can be the difference between voting and not voting.
You’ve heard it before, but I’m going to say it again. Election 2020 could turn out to be the most important in our lifetime. Make sure your voice is counted. Get ready by running through this checklist.
But first…
Make sure you’re registered to vote at least a month before Election Day. Voter purges are happening as we speak. You can check your status at IWillVote.
Some states require ID while others do not. The standard in your state may have changed since the last time you voted. Be doubly sure you know what you need at the polls by checking HERE.
Make a plan to vote
To make your plan, you need to decide which way you will vote: 1) You can vote early, 2) you can vote absentee/mail, or 3) you can vote in person on Election Day.
If you’re voting early: A majority of states allow their voters to vote early. Check HERE to see if and when your state offers early voting. Then, choose the day where you will go vote. Think about where you’ll be right before you go to vote. Set a reminder on your phone or put the time you’ll go in your calendar.
If you’re voting with a mailed-in ballot: A handful of states mail ballots to registered voters automatically, but in most states, you will need to request your ballot. Check HERE for the link to request a ballot in your state. Request your ballot today, or decide what day you will make the request. Next, commit to returning your ballot within 24 hours of receiving it in the mail. Be sure to follow all the instructions that come with your ballot — you may need to get your ballot notarized, for example. Be sure to sign your ballot!!! Finally, confirm if your state requires that your ballot be received by Election Day, or just postmarked by Election Day. If you’re concerned about slow mail delivery, check to see if your county has drop boxes, or simply return the ballot in person at your local elections office.
If you’re voting in person on Election Day: Double check where your polling location is, as it has likely changed due to the pandemic. You can find that info HERE. Decide exactly what time that day you will go. Where will you be right before then? How will you get there? Set a reminder in your phone.
After you vote
If you vote in person, keep this number with you: (866) OUR-VOTE. If you or someone you know is turned away or has trouble voting at your polling location, call this number to submit a complaint. It is run by the Lawyer’s Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.
If you voted by mail, track your ballot to make sure it arrived. Not every state offers this (although they should) but you can find out if they do HERE.
After you vote, wear your “I Voted!” sticker and/or tell everyone on social media that you voted! Research shows that others are much more likely to vote if they know their friends and families are voters.
Please share this widely!
Categories: Elections, Take Action
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