By Emily Hernandez Dominguez, Managing Editor
As election season approaches, political ads and signs transform the landscape, becoming the defining decor of the season.
A general election is scheduled to take place in the U.S. state of Florida on Nov. 5, 2024. During the election, voters will have the opportunity to select the president and Vice President of the United States, as well as candidates and amendments specific to their state. In Florida, the ballot will include candidates for local Senate and House positions, along with up to six amendments for Floridians to consider. Additionally, based on county and city, the ballot will include other local candidates.
During this time, arguments are heard for why people should vote for certain candidates or issues, but sometimes what’s needed is information on how to vote. With different voting methods, deadlines, and requirements, it can be challenging to navigate the process.
To be eligible to vote, you must first register. Throughout the election process, it is essential for those wanting to vote to research their state and local rules and regulations, as these can vary significantly between states, counties, and even cities.
The most accessible way to register to vote is by visiting one’s state or county voting website. There, a link can be found that provides instructions on how to register and outlines the requirements. Everyone must be 18 to vote, but in states like Florida, voters can register at 16.
Once voters register and confirm their registration is valid, it is time to decide how they would like to vote. There are three main methods of voting in Florida: requesting a ballot by mail, vote in person on Election Day, or take advantage of early voting options.
Voting by mail allows a ballot to be cast from home instead of going to a polling place. The ballot will include directions and an envelope for returning your vote. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure the ballot is filled out correctly and counted. This method is ideal for students who are away from home and cannot go back in time to vote in person.
To request a ballot, voters must visit your local voting website. Keep in mind that there are deadlines for both requesting and submitting a mail-in ballot.
On Election Day, Florida residents can vote from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., but the opening and closing times for polling locations vary from state to state, and in some states, polling hours vary by city or county. For those in line to vote in Florida, any voters waiting in line at 7 p.m. will have the opportunity to cast a ballot.
“I vote in person because I genuinely love voting,” says Jasmyn Moreno, a senior in social work. “The minute I turned 18, that’s what I wanted to do first.”
While the official Election Day is on Nov. 5, in the state of Florida amongst others, voting begins before that. For those who have an opportunity to head to their polling location, or is their first time, early voting is another great opportunity to vote physically and avoid large crowds.
“Even though my favorite [method of voting]is on Election Day, the more practical one is early voting,” says Christina Cazanave, M.S.W., director of field education and instructor of undergraduate social work at Saint Leo University. “What if you made a mistake and you went to the wrong polling location? You may not be able to go to the new one [on Election Day], but with early voting you have plenty of time. And even though it may not have the same feel…Be proud you still voted, even if it was early.”
Whether voting during early voting or on Election Day, voters must bring a current and valid photo ID with their signature. Some examples are Florida driver’s license, Florida identification card issued by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, or a United States passport. If one’s photo ID does not include their signature, they will be asked to provide another ID that has a signature.
Before voting, in addition to researching candidates and amendments, take the time to understand the specifics regarding polling hours, locations, and requirements based on one’splace of residence.
Misconceptions about voting can arise from a lack of information. For instance, students who are away at college often face challenges when trying to vote away from home. To physically cast a vote, they must be in their designated voting district, meaning they cannot simply go to any polling location. Elections have specific rules, so it’s crucial to visit one’s local voting page to find out where they can vote.
Another misconception that discourages voters is the notion that their vote does not count. Many people believe that their individual vote won’t make a difference, but every vote contributes to the overall outcome of an election.
“In 2022, in Florida, there were 10 House races that were decided by 4,000 votes or less. Two of those races, both in Miami-Dade County, one was decided by less than 500 and less than 250,” Cazanave said. “Students may feel like they might not make a difference in the general election, and sometimes that is a true statement, but when it comes to your state and local elections, that’s where those votes matter.”
No matter how you decide to vote, take time to know your voting rights and rules. For more information on voting, visit https://www.nass.org/can-I-vote to learn more about specifics regarding your eligibility to vote or to register.
