Voting on Election Day
Tomorrow is FINALLY Election Day. After what seems like 100 years, this election is finally coming to a close tomorrow. With that being said we want to remind you that if you have not yet cast your vote, please go out tomorrow and let your voice be heard. Voting is a privilege we are fortunate enough to have as a democracy. The fact that every American citizen even gets a say is a big deal. There are so many countries around the world where having a voice isn’t even an option.
But, my vote won’t matter right it’s just so small?
This sort of mentality is not the way to think. If everyone said, “oh my vote doesn’t matter,” then a democratic system would break down completely. In 2000, the election was separated by only 537 votes, and those votes were in Florida. With as close as the election is this year, that margin could be even smaller! So, it is your job to make sure that tally is as complete as possible by voting.
What You Need to Vote on Election Day
First, for Hillsborough county click here to find your voting location/precinct. If you are in Pinellas, check here and if you are in Pasco, check here. Otherwise you can actually just type into Google, “where do I vote” and Google will let you check instantly with a program they have. Remember, your polling location from the last election might have changed, so check just in case.
Second, Get to the polls on time. The polls are open tomorrow November 8, 2016 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. As long as you are physically in line by 7 p.m. sharp you are allowed to vote. This gives most people 2 hours before work and 2 hours after work to vote, if your company does not allow you to use your time to vote.
Bring at least two forms of ID just to be safe. One should be sufficient but if an ID doesn’t have your signature, you will need another. The following forms of ID are acceptable:
- Florida Driver License
- Florida ID Card issued by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
- U.S. Passport
- Debit or Credit Card
- Military ID
- Student ID
- Retirement Center ID
- Neighborhood Association ID
- Public Assistance ID
- Veteran Health ID (issued by VA)
- Concealed Weapon License (issued pursuant to s. 790.06)
- Government Employee ID
What Will Happen When you get to the Polls
When you arrive, you will check in with your valid form if photo and signature ID. You will then get a paper ballot and be escorted to a privacy booth to fill it out with black pen. If you make a mistake, you can request another ballot. Once you have finished with your vote, you will put it in a folder and the insert the ballot into the scan feeder that a poll attendant will direct you to. After your poll is scanned it cannot be retrieved and it goes into a locked ballot box.
Again, voting is a privilege that we are lucky to have, and even if the choices we have do not appeal to you, it is still important to have an input. And remember you are not just voting for the President, you also have the chance to vote for local and state representatives and for amendments.
“To vote is like the payment of a debt, a duty never to be neglected, if its performance is possible.”- Rutherford B. Hayes
