One of my favorite sayings to encourage people to vote is Your vote is your voice! We have the right, and the civic responsibility, to cast our ballots every Election Day. We are given this gift to participate in democracy. Be thoughtful, take your choices seriously, and educate yourself on the issues. Here are some important things to remember if you are voting on Election Day:
What if my polling locations closes while I am still waiting in line?
STAY IN LINE! If you are in line when the polls close, stay in line. As long as your are in line before the polls closed, you may remain in line for as long as it takes.
What if I make a mistake on my ballot?
ASK AN ELECTION WORKER FOR A NEW BALLOT! Mistakes happen, but do not scribble on your ballot or cross out a choice.
Can I wear clothes, buttons, etc. showing support for a candidate or an issue?
THIS DEPENDS ON WHERE YOU VOTE. Here in New York, the answer is NO. It is considered electioneering. It is best to err on the side of caution and leave that stuff at home or in your car.
What do I do if I am turned away at the polls?
YOU REPEAT THIS VERBATIM: “Please give me a provisional ballot with a receipt as required by law.”
What do I do if someone threatens me or tries to intimidate me while I am trying to vote?
VOTER INTIMIDATION IS A FEDERAL CRIME. Federal law says it is illegal to “intimidate, threaten, or coerce, any other person for the purpose of interfering with the right of such other person to vote or to vote as he may choose.” If this happens to you, there are three things you should do: 1) Report the behavior to an election worker. 2) Contact your local Board of Elections and report the behavior, noting the location, the time, and any other details you can remember. 3) If you think you’re encountering or witnessing voter intimidation, call the Election Protection Hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683) to get voting help from a trained election protection volunteer.
Also, be kind to your poll workers! Although many receive a stipend, they are essentially volunteers.