Step 1: Take a Deep Breath

Start by taking a deep breath and remembering that we are living through a global pandemic with some of the most neglectful leadership the world has seen. In an increasingly globalized world, the US plays a big role in world politics and society, so remember that the results of our Presidential Election will have repercussions worldwide. 

Step 2: Begin Planning Your Vote

Because of the pandemic, going to vote is not the same as usual. The risk of COVID-19 will undoubtedly affect your voting experience but this guide will show you how you can safely and effectively cast your vote this year. 

  • Vote Now or Later?
    1. Decide whether you want to go to the Polls on Election day or prepare to vote ahead of time.
    2. Voting by Mail-in Ballot is available to any registered PA voter due to the pandemic. The Absentee Ballot is available to any registered voter who is not in their registered municipality or if they have a disability or illness. 
    3. It is encouraged to vote ahead of time in the circumstance that you become sick and are not able to attend the Polls on Election Day. 
    4. Voting ahead of time also allows you the time to properly research, fill out, and return your ballot so that your vote counts.

  • Deadlines
    1. It’s important to check deadlines and make sure you have planned a time to vote. 
    2. PA Voter Registration Deadline: October 19th 2020
    3. PA Early Voting is available until October 27th, 2020
    4. Mail-in Ballots can be returned in person by November 3rd, 8pm, 2020
    5. Mail-in and Absentee Ballots can be requested up until October 27th, 2020
    6. Absentee Ballots must be postmarked by November 3rd, 8pm, 2020 and received by November 

Step 3: Register to Vote

  • Register or check your registration status online at  Vote.org
  • Make sure to update your Voter registration with the proper address, name, and contact information. 

Step 4: Research the Ballot

  • Voting Candidate Guide – learn about what positions are being voted on and each candidate’s party, sponsors, and key issues. 
  • Visit the candidates website to get an idea of what’s important to them.
  • Use Fact Check – a website that keeps track of Politicians public statements and claims.
  • Decide who you will be voting for, for each position.

Step 5: Obtain Your Ballot

  • Request a Mail-In in Absentee Ballot by October 27th – Please note that the USPS has experienced a drastic decrease in efficiency due to detrimental government acts and is likely to be behind their usual speed. 
  • Visit your County Election Office – go to VotesPa.com and scroll down to early Voting Instructions and to find a drop down menu of all PA Election Office and Satellite Locations to Obtain a ballot. 
  • Some locations like these Philly satellite offices will allow you to register, fill out your ballot and return it all in one trip

Step 6: Fill Out Your Ballot

  • If you’ve requested and received your Ballot by mail, carefully follow the instructions included in your ballot materials. 
  • Using black ink only (PA ballot – see specific instructions on YOUR ballot), fully fill the bubble next to the candidate you’re voting for. 
  • Follow the instructions and carefully put your ballot in the “Official Ballot Envelope”.
  • Then put your Official Ballot Envelope in the second Ballot Mail Envelope addressed to your municipality’s Election Office – this will already be printed on the outside of the envelope.
  • Remember to SIGN and DATE the Voter Declaration on the outside of the envelope. 
  • Remember to carefully read and complete all the instructions included with your ballot. 

Step 7: Return Your Ballot

  • Once you’re ready to cast your Ballot, find the closest Official Drop Off location on VotesPa.com
  • If you need to fill out your ballot, find the closest Official County Election Office and call ahead of time to ask what Voting services are available.
  • If early voting is available in your county, find a County Election Office or Satellite location, confirm their voting services and go there to fill out your Ballot and sign your Voter Declaration. 
  • USA Early Voting Schedule by State

Congratulations!

You’ve exercised your right to vote.

🙂

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