Vote Tuesday, Nov. 7, if not earlier

[mmcirvin]

Having reminded my American friends to register to vote, I'd be remiss if I didn't remind them to actually vote. This year's election is an important one, with the grand prize being control of Congress; but even if your state has no seriously contested Congressional races, there are probably state and local races and ballot initiatives that deserve your attention.

Some states require presenting identification of some sort when voting; the only-somewhat-disingenuously-named Help America Vote Act requires some sort of ID for first-time voters who registered by mail without presenting proof of identity at that time, and many states go further. Here's a rundown of state-by-state requirements. It will make things easier if you plan ahead.

This is important: If you think you are a registered voter (or can register on election day in your state) but can't secure the appropriate ID, do not stay home. Voters who need ID and don't have it can still vote, but on a provisional ballot pending checking of eligibility, or by signing an affidavit. There will probably be efforts to suppress the vote in some places, but they are harder to pull off if people show up and make a stink about it.

Comments

[bottlroktt.livejournal.com]

glad you mentioned the provisionals--those were huge in 2004.