Vote! Vote! Vote!
Everything you need to know about voting.
Voter Requirements
- You Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be a resident of the county, and prior to voting in an election, must have resided at your residential address for at least 30 days prior to the date of the election.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must not be serving a sentence for a felony conviction (including probation or on parole).
- Must rescind any previous registration in another county or state.
How to Register to Vote
- Fill out a voter registration application.
- Provide your full name, residential address, date of birth, citizenship status, and signature on application.
- Mail to the board of elections in the your county.
- Expect to receive your voter card in the mail within 1-2 weeks from the board of elections.
Steps in Voting
- Go to the polling place in your precinct.
- Confirm your identity.
- Cast your vote on the ballot.
- The votes will be counted and announced.
Who Votes? Who Doesn't?
People vote because:
- It gives them a chance to participate in government.
- It gives them the opportunity to voice their opinion.
People don't vote because:
- They do not meet voting requirements.
- They have not registered.
- They do not support any of the candidates.
- They think their vote will not make a difference.
- Apathy- lack of interest.
Straight Ticket Voting
Voting for all of the candidates in one party.
Split Ticket Voting
Voting for candidates of different parties.
Ballot Fatigue
When the voter gets tired of reading all the names on the ballot, so they randomly choose one.
Voter Information- Voting Amendments
- 15th Amendment- Gives any race the right to vote.
- 17th Amendment- Popular election of senators.
- 19th Amendment- Gives women the right to vote.
- 23rd Amendment- Gives residents of D.C. the right to vote.
- 24th Amendment- Prohibits Poll Tax
- 26th Amendment- Lowers the voting age to 18.
Timeline
1870- 15th Amendment
1920- 19th Amendment
1924- Congressional Act
1961-23rd Amendment
1964-24th Amendment
1971-26th Amendment
1993- National Voter Registration Act