I took a look at the blog post I published four years on the day before Election Day and was struck by how my message hasn’t changed. Four years ago, I wrote “This is my eleventh presidential election as a voter. And I think it’s the most important.” I wasn’t wrong. And this year’s election feels just as consequential. I’ve edited that important post and am running an updated version. I think it’s the most important thing I could write about today.
Election Day here in the U.S. is tomorrow, November 5. The world is watching.The results will change the course of our country’s history. (I write that without hyperbole.) And the suspense is killing me.
If you haven’t voted already, please vote tomorrow. Or vote early today, if that is available to you. If you have a mail-in ballot, don’t risk sending it in through the postal service at this late date. Drop it off, if possible. You might be able to take it to the polls, have it spoiled, and vote in person. (Check with your local election office to see what the rules are.)
If you’ve just now decided that you want to vote, it’s not too late, assuming you’re a registered voter. (If you live in Washington, D.C. or one of the 23 states that allow same-day registration, you can register to vote on election day.) Go to vote.org to check your registration status and find or confirm your polling place.
If you live in Florida, Georgia or North Carolina and have been impacted by a natural disaster or major weather event, you may have additional options to vote. Click on the link for your state to see your state’s notice.
If you’re voting in person tomorrow, please allow plenty of time. You may need to stand in line for awhile. But it’s worth waiting to make your voice heard. Bring along some water, maybe some snacks and a great attitude. And of course bring your mask if you’re concerned about infectious disease.
The early voting turnout this year has been huge. It’s important to remember that all the early votes may mean a delay in results. So we will all need to be patient while waiting for the presidential election results to be determined. It’s going to be an interesting week!
Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash