Going to Vote?

November 4, 2008 is gearing up to be one of the most anticipated and historical elections in decades. Don't have non-voters remorse, if you are willing and able there is no reason not to participate in this upcoming election. Unlike in the past, there is no poll tax, or other clauses precluding Citizens from vote. In order to vote, all you need to be is a United States citizen, a resident of a state, at least 18 years of age by the date of the election, and not a convicted felon on parole or currently in prison.

Voting Made Simple

First and foremost be registered to vote. In California a completed voter registration form must be mailed to the county Registrar of Voters office, and postmarked no later than October 20^th, 2008.

You can obtain a voter registration form online, at the DMV, local library, or from the U.S. Post Office. The registration form must include your residence address, and be signed in order for it to be valid.

Once you are registered, you need to confirm the correct polling place where you go to vote. If you have not received a voter registration card in the mail, contact your local elections office, and ask for the complete address of your designated polling place. If you registered in the past, but have not voted in some time, you may also want to confirm if your polling place has changed by calling the voter assistance hotline at 1-800-345-VOTE, or your local elections office.

On Election Day, polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. In California, employers are required by law to give employees time off to go vote if employees do not have time to vote outside of their normal work scheduled.

When you arrive at your polling place, you are required to check-in and a poll worker will check your name off the voting roster. If for any reason your name is not on the list, you can still vote. You will be given a provisional ballot. If you receive a provisional ballot, later on you should call the county elections office to confirm if that ballot was counted.

Every vote is important, and you should exercise your right to vote even if you think your candidate is a shoo-in, as the popular candidate is not necessarily the person who wins the election. In presidential elections, electoral votes determine who the winning candidate is. California has 55 votes, the most of any state.

Also, remember to respect all local and state laws when voting. For example, campaigning at a polling place is not allowed. Campaigning includes wearing a button or clothing bearing the candidate's logo or name. Furthermore, don't share your vote with anyone, or try to influence someone else's vote. If you violate any laws, you can be asked to leave the polling place. However, if you feel you are not being treated fairly, speak with a poll watcher, or contact your local elections office.