How and where to vote

Alexa Diaz

Design by Alexa Diaz

Your vote is powerful and necessary. The presidential term election happens every four years, and, lucky for you, states have the most control over deciding elections. In order to vote, however, you must be educated on the candidates. It is crucial to research each candidate’s platforms, read diverse news coverage, and watch debates where they discuss their policies. 

There are four stages to a presidential election: exploratory campaign, intra party elections, presidential nominations, and the general election and electoral college. This is where your vote matters. 

The electoral college is a required process for selecting the president through slates of electors chosen in each state who are pledged to vote for a nominee in the presidential election. In Florida, in order to register to vote you must be a citizen of the U.S., a legal resident of Florida, at least 18 years old to vote, not convicted of any felonies, and have some form of identification. You must register for an upcoming election 29 days before it is held. 

If you are dreading waiting in long lines at polls, depending on the state, there are many ways to vote. On election day, polls are typically open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Early voting is determined by the local Supervisor of Elections and will end the weekend before the election, as there is no early voting the day before election day. You can also send your vote in by mail, however, the deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot must be mailed no later than the 12th day before the election. If you miss these deadlines individuals can register to vote at their local DMV. 

Whether voting early, by mail or on election day, staying engaged ensures your participation in shaping the future leadership of the country – your vote is powerful and necessary.