Another election year for the United States means another round of potentially stressful questions about who to vote for. Alongside those questions, however, come questions about how and where to vote. Never fear! I am here to answer all your voting questions.
While who you vote for is entirely up to you, it is important that everyone is aware of the resources available for out-of-state and in-state voters. Maybe, like me, this is your first time being able to vote in a presidential election. You may want to cast your vote for your home state instead of voting based on where you go to school. That’s OK! Let’s get started on what types of processes are needed for different scenarios.
Absentee Voting
Rules on absentee voting vary by state, but to vote absentee generally means that you, for any reason, are not able to be physically present at a polling location on Election Day but still wish to have your vote counted. By filling out the corresponding absentee form of your state, a ballot can be mailed to you here at Andrews. This is what I am doing for my home state of Nebraska.
Specific deadlines must be met to receive an absentee ballot by mail. Forms are available to print and be mailed on every state’s website. It’s very important that you follow the rules and deadlines of your home state if you wish to cast a vote.
For a quick guide to your rights as a student voter, check out this resource from All In To Vote. It includes helpful visuals that we, as student voters, might find useful.
The National Association of Secretaries of State provides specific instructions and resources on how or where to cast a vote for your state.
Some states require that your mail-in absentee ballot be notarized. This means that someone with a particular certification needs to be present while you sign and send in your ballot. Search for a notary here.
Voting Based on Andrews University
Did you know you can also vote for the state where you currently attend college? Those who have been Michigan residents for 30 days prior to Election Day can cast their vote in the state of Michigan. If you wish to vote in person, this might be your best option.
Closer to the election, Andrews University usually sends an email for information on voting procedures and where the voting offices are located. You need to ensure you are eligible and registered to vote for Michigan if you want to vote here. For more information on student voter rights and registration for the state of Michigan, check out this resource.
Again, make sure to look up the forms and other information you may need to know to vote in whichever state you wish. Voting can be exciting! You play a part in who our next leader will be. Think about your decision carefully as you look at the candidates and what they stand for. Happy voting!
For more information, check out the Andrews University Voter Guide.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.