With Election Day just around the corner, there are still many opportunities for CTE advocates to make a difference at the ballot box. Through voter education activities, you can promote CTE issues on November 4, by educating yourself and serving as a resource on voting information for others.
Most states have a method for voters to cast a ballot before Election Day. Early in-person voting, absentee voting by mail, in-person absentee voting or a combination of these options has become common in many states across the county. For example, all registered voters in Ohio can vote absentee by mail or cast an absentee ballot in person at their county board of elections during regular business hours, as well as certain designated weekend hours, beginning on October 7. It’s important to understand that every state has its own system, and the details, deadlines and timeframes for early voting will vary. Find more information about your state through our partners at Nonprofit VOTE.
For those who prefer to vote in person on Election Day, being a resource on polling locations and hours of operation can help you to encourage your friends, colleagues and students to turn out and vote. You can search polling locations by street address online through your state election official’s website or by contacting your local board of election. Some states also require voters to present identification, which may be satisfied by a voter ID card, driver's license, passport, recent utility bill or other documentation, prior to casting a ballot. Check to see if your state has voter ID requirements to avoid delays or having to cast a provisional ballot.
After reviewing all the voting options, its important research the candidates and issues that will appear on the ballot. We previously reported on the major midterm congressional races and state-level offices and ballot measures that will be decided in 2014. Take advantage of sample ballots and issue summaries provided by your state election official to inform your decisions and share with other CTE advocates. Don’t forget to visit the Election Watch 2014 page on our website and follow us on the CTE Policy Watch Blog for more coverage through Election Day and beyond.
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is a nonpartisan organization and does not support or oppose any candidate for public office.
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