Last day to register to vote is October 10

by Jetta Barbar

For first-time voters who want to vote in this year’s presidential election, voting can be as confusing as a giraffe in a space suit.  But have no fear — the Current is here to help readers through the process of voting.

Before voting, you need to register to vote.  This is so the government can ensure that potential voters are state residents, at least 18 years of age, and citizens of the U.S.

If you live in Missouri and wants to register to vote, simply go to www.sos.mo.gov/registertovote, and print and fill out the voter registration form.  After you’ve filled out this form, which asks for information such as name, date of birth, and social security number, you need to mail it to your local election authority.

First-time voters need to include a copy of an acceptable form of personal identification along with your registration – your Longview student ID will qualify, as will a driver’s license or utility bill.

For first-time voters who want to vote in this year’s presidential election, voting can be as confusing as a giraffe in a space suit.  But have no fear — The Current is here to help readers through the process of voting.

Before voting, you need to register to vote.  This is so the government can ensure that potential voters are state residents, at least 18 years of age, and citizens of the U.S.

If you live in Missouri and wants to register to vote, simply go to www.sos.mo.gov/registertovote, and print and fill out the voter registration form.  After you’ve filled out this form, which asks for information such as name, date of birth, and social security number, you need to mail it to your local election authority.

First-time voters need to include a copy of an acceptable form of personal identification along with your registration – your Longview student ID will qualify, as will a driver’s license or utility bill.

To find out where to mail your voter registration forms go to www.sos.mo.gov/elections/countyclerks.asp, and select your county.  The address for Jackson County is 215 N. Liberty St., PO Box 296, Independence, MO 64051.

You should then receive confirmation of voter registration within seven days.  All voter registrations must be received at least four weeks before the election date.  This means that time is running out for potential first-time voters or those who have recently moved.

After you’ve completed the necessary paperwork, it’s time to get even more involved in democracy.  On Election Day, go to your assigned polling location.  To find out where in the world that is, go to http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/voterlookup/and enter the information requested.  The website will tell you where to go.

Polling locations are open 6 a.m. and remain open until 7  p.m. on Election Day – which by the way is Tuesday, Nov. 6.

Once at the location, you’ll need to present an acceptable form of identification to vote.  This includes a Passport, driver’s license, student ID from a Missouri school, or a utility bill.  After that, you’re ready to rock the vote.

So get out there and get the ball rolling.  It’s really as easy as a few clicks to get registered and vote.  And after all, isn’t that what democracy is all about?