Unless you live under a rock, you should be aware of what is happening in politics now. A new Presidential race is beginning to come on. It might eventually become the most interesting we have seen in several years.

If I had to guess, I think we will see a definite increase in the number of people who will vote at the polls this year. There has been a steady decrease for most democratic countries since the 1960s. However, the United States may turn that around.

If you want to be a part of it, and make your opinion count in the next election, then you have to go out and actually vote! Some people make simple mistakes that affect their ability to easily voting. So, here are some tips to make sure you are not one of them.
First of all, make sure that you are registered when it is time to vote. If you recently moved or even if you moved quite a while ago, you may need to register again with your new address. 

This is a very easy process. You can go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles, your local library, or your City Hall for information.

Or, simply do an Internet search for “voter registration”, and you can find a form that can be filled out and mailed in. It does not hurt to double check so you can make certain you are registered at your current address. This will make voting day go more smoothly.

Also, you need to make sure of the location of where you are supposed to vote. Do not just assume that you are supposed to go to vote at the same location where you voted last year. 

Usually, registered voters will receive a registration card in the mail that will indicate their polling site. If you do not get the card, or you misplace yours, you can still find out where to go.

You can contact your local election officials at your City Hall for information. Showing up at the wrong election location on voting day will take more of your time.

Of course, you will need some form of identification in order to vote on voting day.  It is best if you to find out ahead of time. You will need forms of identification that are acceptable. You need photo identification, with personal name, and address.  Do not be caught by surprise on voting day. 

Generally, driver’s licenses or state identification cards are accepted, but other items may be suitable as well, if you do not have either of these. You can also ask for help by election officials at your City Hall too.

If you cannot vote on Election Day for whatever reason, you can arrange to vote on an absentee ballot. This type of voting is typically done by mail prior to the election.  You can contact your election officials to request an absentee ballot if you should require one.

A mistake some people have made is that they misunderstand when, exactly, they are allowed to vote. Some people are way off, and get the date wrong. Others do not know the hours that the polling locations are open. So, mark down the day and times.
The right to vote is something no one should take for granted, especially if you like to voice your opinion. So, follow this guideline, and make sure to get out there and vote on election day!

Reach Paul R. Harbaugh at prharbaugh@hotmail.com.