Empower Your Vote: Essential Resources for Election Day

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Websites:

• Can I Vote?
  • Purpose: Provides a tool to check voter registration status, find polling places, and get information on how to vote in states across the U.S.
  • URL: www.canivote.org
• League of Women Voters (VOTE411)
  • Purpose: Offers nonpartisan information about elections, candidates, and voting locations. It also provides voter guides.
  • URL: www.vote411.org
• BallotReady
  • Purpose: Helps voters find everything they need to know about the upcoming election, including candidates, ballot measures, and how to vote.
  • URL: www.ballotready.org
• Rock the Vote
  • Purpose: Focuses on engaging and registering young and first-time voters. Provides information on how to register and vote.
  • URL: www.rockthevote.org
• Turbovote
  • Purpose: Aids in voter registration, provides reminders about elections, and information on how to vote by mail or in person.
  • URL: www.turbovote.org
• FairVote
  • Purpose: While primarily focused on electoral reform, they also provide voter information, especially on alternative voting methods like Ranked Choice Voting.
  • URL: www.fairvote.org/voter_guide
• Vote.org
  • Purpose: Simplifies voter registration, provides information on how to vote, including early and absentee voting, and where to vote.
  • URL: www.vote.org
• Project Vote Smart
  • Purpose: Offers nonpartisan information on politicians, issues, and candidates, helping voters make informed decisions.
  • URL: www.votesmart.org
• HeadCount
  • Purpose: Known for registering voters at music events, but also offers online tools for voter registration and election information.
  • URL: www.headcount.org

Each of these websites can be invaluable resources for voters looking to engage with the electoral process, from registration to understanding the candidates and issues on the ballot. Remember to verify voter information through official channels as well, especially for state-specific details.

Phone Numbers:

• National Voter Hotline:
  • Number: 833-336-8683
  • Note: For general voting inquiries, might direct you to state-specific resources.
• Voter Protection Hotline:
  • Number: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683)
  • Note: Nonpartisan, available in multiple languages for voting assistance.
• Election Protection Hotline:
  • Number: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683)
  • Details: Can be reached via call or text. Offers state and local contact numbers as well.
• General Voter Assistance Number:
  • Number: 844-644-8683
  • Note: Mentioned for voter registration questions.

Additional Resources:

• State and Local Election Offices:
  • Access: You can find these by visiting your state's official government website.
  • Services: Information on registration, voting locations, deadlines, and more.

**The Election Day Do's and Don'ts: A Voter's Guide*\*

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Do's:

• Check Your Voting Location Beforehand: Make sure you know where to go. Polling places can change!
• Bring Proper ID: Different states have different requirements. Check what you need before you leave home.
• Be Patient: Expect lines, especially if it's a big election. Plan accordingly.
• Take Your Time: In the voting booth, ensure your choices are clear and your ballot is filled out correctly.
• Ask for Help: If you're confused about anything, poll workers are there to help. Don't hesitate.
• Stay in Line: If you're in line before the polls close, you're entitled to vote. Don't leave.
• Review Your Ballot: Make sure to check the back for any additional questions or proposals.
• Bring Supplies: For long waits, bring water, a snack, or something to keep entertained.

Don'ts:

• Don't Wear Political Gear: Wearing political messages in the polling place can be considered electioneering.
• Don't Use Your Phone in the Booth: Taking pictures of your ballot or making calls can be illegal or frowned upon.
• Don't Discuss Your Vote: Keep your vote private to avoid influencing others or breaching privacy.
• Don't Panic if You Make a Mistake: You can usually ask for a new ballot or correct your error.
• Don't Bring Notes or Voter Guides: Unless allowed, leave these outside.
• Don't Intimidate or Harass: Everyone has the right to vote peacefully. Respect it.
• Don't Forget to Sign: Some places require a signature to verify your vote.

Important Reminder:

• Local rules can vary! Double-check with your local election office for any specific dos and don'ts in your area.