November 5th holds special significance this year as it’s Election Day. This year is particularly notable because, according to CIRCLE—an independent research organization focused on youth civic engagement—41 million members of Gen Z are eligible to vote in the presidential election. This means that even some seniors at RAHS who are 18 by Election Day can vote.
If you’re a first-time voter, there’s much to think about, which can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, plenty of resources are available to help you prepare, including this article. Even if you can’t vote in this election, you can still use this information to stay informed about current events or share it with someone who is voting. Below, I’ve addressed a few common concerns and provided helpful resources and links.
Pre-registration for this year’s election has now closed. However, you can still register to vote at your polling place or when voting early with an absentee ballot. If you didn’t pre-register, bring proof of residency, such as identification, to your polling place. For identification information, visit Minnesota Secretary Of State – Register on Election Day.
You’ve probably heard the term ‘polling place’ mentioned recently, but what does it mean? A polling place is the official location where voters go to cast their ballots during elections. These locations vary based on your home address. To find your specific polling place, visit Polling Place Locator – Vote.org.
This year’s election goes beyond just the presidential race; it also includes U.S. Senators, U.S. Representatives, and various other positions, which vary depending on where you live. You can view your specific sample ballot at My Ballot to see all the candidates running in your area. While your ballot won’t be disqualified if you leave some sections blank, it’s important to stay informed about each candidate and their positions so you can make well-informed choices.
Finding reliable information about candidates can be challenging due to the abundance of information available online. One helpful resource is BallotReady, which features a ‘Research Your Ballot’ page. This page provides detailed profiles for each candidate, including their education and professional or political experience. Additionally, it outlines their positions on various issues and any endorsements they have received.
Candidate websites can also be useful for gathering information about their views and promises if elected. However, it’s important to be aware that these sites may present biased perspectives.
Also, trust your values and beliefs, and let them guide your decision-making as you choose who to vote for. 2024 Political Party Quiz website offers a straightforward quiz that asks questions about your political beliefs to help you identify a related political party.
Voting is an essential way to actively participate in democracy and shape our society. Your voice matters because every vote makes a difference.
