Are you ready? While the US 2020 election is on November 3, many states will begin holding early voting starting up to six weeks before Election Day.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic this year, many states have made changes for people to vote early or by mail. With all these changes, it’s important for political campaigns and candidates to educate their supporters on how and when they can vote.
For example, one cannot vote unless they are registered. You’ll want to encourage eligible voters to verify their registration status. Early voting is an option for people concerned about mail delays or the safety of in-person voting. Of course, rules differ between states. Some states have identification requirements that may require a photo or non-photo ID to vote. Hours and poll locations may have changed this year – or may change between now and Election Day.
If you find all this confusing, imagine how some voters must feel!
Deadlines are critical for making sure each vote is counted. You and your supporters need to know the following deadlines, including:
- Early Voting Dates
- Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
- Deadline to Return Completed Absentee Ballot
- Early Voting Deadlines
- Election Day voting locations and times
Even simple things, like a missing signature, can invalidate a ballot. Keeping your supporters up to date on voting information is more important than ever. Getting your message out by useful educating can help replace a lack of door-to-door canvassing and in-person events. Turnout is often the deciding factor in an election. Communicate through all your online and offline channels, including email, social media, and targeted advertising.
There are organizations that are dedicated to sharing voting information. Some provide widgets that you can embed in your campaign website to check voter registration, verify registration status, perform absentee ballot registration, reminders and more.
Civic engagement tools and resources:
Many organizations (partisan and non-partisan) are committed to registering and turning out new voters. Consider partnering up with one or more to help spread the word.
This election year is like no other. It’s possible that there will be changes to the rules as Election Day approaches, so staying up to date and preparing for potential changes is crucial.
Related:
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Further Reading
So You Want To Run For Mayor? Here’s How To Get Started »
Tags: begin campaign, campaign tips, get out the vote
