By Ruby Churchill
As a college student in California, it is important to know the steps for casting your vote. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the voting process in the Golden State (without getting too political).
You are eligible to vote if you are over 18, a U.S. citizen, and a California resident.
Welcome to the world of democracy—it is time to flex those newly-acquired civic muscles. To register, you can go online through the California Secretary of State’s website. You will need a California driver’s license or state ID. You also need the last 4 digits of your Social Security number. You can further register in person or by mail.
You must register 15 days before Election Day. This means that for the upcoming general election, the deadline is Oct. 21, 2024. If you are a procrastination pro, California lets you do same-day registration.
California is the land of convenience—every voter is automatically shipped a mail-in ballot. You can use your home address and have your parents ship your ballot to you. If you want to vote in more local elections, you can update your address.
Once you are officially registered, it is time to play detective. Research the candidates using sites like Ballotpedia or the California Secretary of State’s website.
On Election Day, you can head to your assigned polling place or your county elections office with your completed ballot. If you prefer to stay snuggled in bed, you can mail it.
You are probably wondering why all of this is important.
Dr. Dan Sloan explained that voting is a crucial process for students to participate in.
“It’s important because we live in a republic…it is the fabric of our nation, the fabric of our democratic values is to go out and vote,” Sloan said.
Voting allows people to influence decisions that directly affect their future. By participating in elections, students can advocate for issues that matter to them. They can help shape a society that reflects their values and needs. Additionally, engaging in the democratic process fosters a sense of civic duty.
Elizabeth Aleo is a political science major as well as a communication major. She stated that voting allows people to have a say in elections.
“It will get their input, and basically get their voices heard,” Aleo said.
By voting, college students ensure a future that aligns with their values. Now go vote like the responsible adult you are.
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