Dear
Constituent
Election
Day (November 2nd) is rapidly approaching! Included here is
a list of your rights that you should know when you go to
the polls on Election Day.
This information will help to ensure that your vote
will count.
ü
Bring
identification to the polls.
Some states require that you show identification.
Some will ask for identification if you registered to
vote by mail. Acceptable
identification may include the following:
a valid driver’s license; a copy of a current
utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or
other government document that states your name and address.
But if you do not have any of these items at the
polls you can still request a provisional ballot.
ü
Ask
for a provisional ballot.
If your name does not appear on the voter
registration list or you have forgotten to bring ID to the
polls, you may still vote by asking for a provisional
ballot. You
should ask the poll worker how you can check to make sure
your vote was counted, since some states require that
provisional ballots be cast in the correct precinct.
The poll worker should provide you with a phone
number or website that will tell you if your provisional
ballot was counted.
ü
Look
for the signs. Signs
are posted at each polling station to give public notice to
each qualifying individual of his/her voting rights; how to
use the voting machines; and giving directions on how to
file a complaint if his/her rights have been violated.
ü
If you have
a question…Ask. The
job of a poll worker is to help with the process.
If you have a question about how to use a machine, or
need a provisional ballot; ask the poll worker for help.
If you are in the wrong voting precinct, the poll
worker can help you find the right one.
ü
Call for
help. Hotlines have been set up by government agencies to assist those who feel that their
rights are being violated or need help with the voting
process. These
hotlines will be staffed by individuals who will be able to
assist you if you face obstacles at the polls.
Most will be able to direct you to the appropriate
official to resolve problems.
a.
Election
Assistance Commission (1-866-747-1471). The EAC will have staff and
volunteers answering phone calls on Election Day and
directing voters to officials who can determine where their
polling station is located and other Election Day questions.
b.
U.S.
Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, Voting Section
(1-800-253-3931).
DOJ has designated a phone line for inquiries from
states and other jurisdictions concerning the Help America
Vote Act.
Voting
is fundamental. Bring
this guide to the polls on Election Day and use it as a
reference for answering any questions you may have at the
polls.
Juanita Millender-McDonald
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