Exercising Your Right to Vote: Why It Matters and How to Get Ready for November 5

Voting is one of the most fundamental rights we have as citizens of the United States. It's not just about selecting leaders; it's about shaping the future of our communities, states, and country. When we exercise our right to vote, we contribute to the democratic process that ensures our voices are heard on the issues that matter most to us—healthcare, education, jobs, and justice, to name a few.

Voting is one of the most powerful ways to make your voice heard in a democracy. It’s a fundamental right that shapes the future of our communities, our state, and our nation. Yet, voter turnout in the United States often lags behind that of other democracies, and many eligible voters remain unregistered. So, why does voting matter?

Your Vote is Your Voice

Your vote is your voice. Each vote is a direct line to influence policies and decisions that affect our daily lives. Whether it's a local school board election or a presidential race, your vote contributes to the outcome.. Voting is how we choose representatives who will make decisions on our behalf at the local, state, and federal levels. Elected officials are more likely to advocate for the needs and values of those who vote.

It’s Our Civic Duty

Democracy thrives when citizens actively participate. Voting is a key component of this participation. It ensures that our leaders are chosen by the people, for the people. By exercising your right to vote, you help uphold the principles of democracy and ensure that our government remains accountable to its citizens.

The right to vote has been hard-won by many groups in U.S. history. By voting, we honor those who fought for this right and ensure their struggles were not in vain.

Maine Voter Registration Deadlines for November 5, 2024, General Election and Referendum Election

To participate in the upcoming general election on November 5, 2024, it's important to ensure that you are registered to vote by the appropriate deadline. Here are the key deadlines for voter registration:

Voter Registration deadlines

Online registration by 11:59 p.m. on October 15, 2024

In-Person Registration: If you prefer to register in person, you can do so until the day of the election, November 5, 2024. Maine allows same-day voter registration at your polling place.

Absentee ballot deadlines

On November 5, 2024, Maine voters will elect the President, one of Maine’s two United States Senators, Maine’s two Representatives to Congress, all members of the Maine Legislature (State Senators and State Representatives) and certain county officers.  County officers will vary depending on the county, but include the following: Judge of Probate, Register of Probate, County Treasurer, Register of Deeds, Sheriff, District Attorney and County Commissioner.

For the current list of candidates and ballot questions visit: https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/upcoming/index.html

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