Tab 2: Tips for Implementing the Campaign

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Schedule Time to Vote

Mark your calendar now and make sure you’ve made voting a priority activity for November 4, 2008. Voting is one of many benefits of being an American citizen. It represents an exciting opportunity to change leadership and policies or continue building in the same direction.

Election Day Tips

  • Make sure you are registered to vote by (insert local registration deadline).
  • Use the BallotWorksheet, Personal Values Worksheet andCandidate Worksheet to determine who you will be voting for in advance. (These documents can be found online at the CHI Web site by clicking on the “My Voice, My Vote” icon.) Consider taking the Ballot Worksheet or other sample ballot with you to the polling place for reference.
  • If you are short on time, consider voting in the mid-morning or mid-afternoonwhenpolls tend to be less crowded.
  • If you show up at the polling place and your name is not on the voting roll, you have the right to cast a provisional ballot. Your eligibility will be determined later.
  • Find out where you vote and get directions to your polling location in advance. It will save you time and headaches on Election Day.
  • If you make a mistake on your original ballot, you are entitled to a new one.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Poll workers can answer questions and provide help.
  • Take your spouse, significant other, friends or family members to the polls with you to facilitate their voting.
  • If this is your first time voting, or if you have moved to a new precinct, bring picture I.D. to the polling location to verify your identity and provide proof of residence.

Can’t Get to the Polls on Election Day?

In recent years, federal and local governments have been working hard to make voting easy. They are striving to increase participation and efficiency, and to make sure all eligible voters have the chance to cast a ballot.

Mail-in or absentee voting allows registered voters to receive ballots by mail in advance. Voters can mail in the ballots before Election Day. In some locations, absentee ballots may be delivered in person to Election Day polling stations or drop-off sites.

Your county also may allow early voting in person for those who will be out of the area or otherwise unable to vote at polling stations on Election Day.

For more election campaign information contact (insert local liaison name), your “My Voice, My Vote” campaign coordinator.

Vote: Draft Newsletter Article