Barack the Vote (Myths and truths about early voting)
Let’s get out there, everyone, and show Obama (or McCain, if you must) your support by voting early. Election officials across the country are warning that Nov. 4 is going to be a zoo at the voting stations, and even if you’re willing to stand in line for several hours to vote, many first time voters may not be, and we need their votes. If you’ve already decided, now is the time to make your voice heard.
I voted on the first day of early voting in North Carolina, and it was an amazing experience. The election officials at the Senior Center (one of six early voting sites in New Hanover County) said that folks started lining up at 8am that morning, even though voting didn’t begin until 9:00. When we arrived at 3:30 (polls close at 4pm) the line to vote was out the door and around the building. Everyone was very friendly and patient, and though I was wearing my Obama T-shirt, I got no hassle from anyone.
When I finished voting, I actually choked up with emotion on my way to the car. Never in my life (I’m 44) have I been so proud to vote and so charged with optimism and hope. Do it. And do it early.
Misinformation I’ve heard about early voting:
Myth: I can’t wear political buttons or shirts when I vote.
Truth: In North Carolina buttons and/or shirts with political candidates or slogans are fine, as long as you don’t electioneer (try to sway people’s opinions) while you are in line to vote.
Myth: If I vote early, my vote won’t count unless it’s a close race in North Carolina.
Truth: ALL early voting votes count. Every. Single. One. You are casting an early vote, not a provisional vote. Your vote won’t get lost, misappropriated, or “hanging-chadded” if you vote early.
Myth: All I have to do is mark the place on the ballot to vote for a straight party vote and I’m done.
Truth: If you mark the straight party ticket spot on the ballot, you MUST STILL MARK YOUR CHOICE FOR PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT. Tell everyone you know.
Myth: You need your driver’s license to vote.
Truth: You need to know your address.
Myth: If I have an outstanding parking ticket/child support payment/tax lien and I go to vote, I’ll be arrested.
Truth: If you are at least 18 years old and are not a convicted felon, you may vote without legal consequence.
Myth: It’s too late for me to vote if I haven’t already registered. Truth: In North Carolina, you can register and vote at the same time through November 1st.
No more excuses, people. Let’s not leave anything to chance on November 4th. Get out there early and Barack the Vote!
There are six early voting sights in New Hanover County. Most are open daily, until Saturday, November 1st, to cast an early ballot. The hours for most are 9am to 4pm on weekdays, and 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. For complete info: http://www.sboe.state.nc.us/content.aspx?id=17
Great post, Mindle. I’m convinced. I’ve heard some of these myths.
I’ve been thinking I would vote on the 4th, but I’m getting a little worried about crowds and waits. I’m gonna head to one of the sites you point out in this link.
Thanks! -ed.
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Confusing North Carolina Ballot Leaves Off Votes for President
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I simply cannot understand how Americans can send a working science probe to Mars but cant figure out how to make something as simple as a ballot. If ever there was a case for federal intervention this has to be it. This lack of standardization completely undermines due process. I am completely embarrassed…ironic at Bush-era efforts do promote international “democracy.” We should be cleaning up our own kitchen. Seems to me that a caucus among state attorney generals is in order.
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I just heard from a source that when asked, some voters can’t come up with their mailing address. No lie. Maybe it’s time to go to multiple choice?
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Gordon, here’s an excerpt from a Q&A with a political reporter from The Washington Post, which might answer at least part of your concerns:
Voter Registration: The Canadians have a very simple and fool proof voter registration system: You check off that you would like to be registered to vote when you file your taxes. Why can’t we just import the system?
Shailagh Murray: I’m not sure about Canada, but elections are run by local governments here, so it’s very tough to take any sort of national approach to voting in the U.S. Check out some websites that keep track of early voting — it’s astonishing how much the rules vary.
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