Voting options to simplify election day.
I was thinking about what topics I should write about in November, and I kept coming back to Voting. Since election day is November 5th, I am sending this blog out early. I wanted to send out some information on this because voting can be challenging. Getting to a voting location, waiting in line, or figuring out early voting can all be challenges. The differences in voting districts further complicate this. To keep things simple, I am focusing on voting options in Missouri, specifically St. Louis County. Check out the site below for more information on "how to vote" in Missouri.
Several options can make voting easier. Read below for some tips to simplify your voting experience.
"Stand for something or you will fall for anything." - Rosa Parks
Tip #1 - Permanent Absentee Voting
If you have a permanent disability that makes voting difficult, then you can apply for permanent disabled absentee voting. Your application will need to be signed by you and a witness. Once approved, you will AUTOMATICALLY be mailed a ballot for each election. You must apply with your local election authority. You can find your local election authority by the link below or by calling (800)NOW-VOTE.
This is the application for permanent disabled voting in St. Louis County.
Tip #2 - Curbside Voting
Those with limited mobility can pull up to the polling place and ask someone to go in and ask a poll worker to bring a ballot to you. They are supposed to bring a ballot to you in a "reasonable" time frame.
"The ballot is stronger than the bullet." - Abraham Lincoln
Tip #3 - Early Voting
No excuse (in person) for absentee voting is available starting the second Tuesday before election day through election day at a location designated by your local voting authority. Below is a list of early voting locations in the St. Louis Area. You MUST present a photo ID when voting in person early.
Early Voting Facts
You do not have to provide an excuse.
You do not have to apply for an absentee ballot.
No excuse is needed. Absentee voting is only available at a few locations.
You must bring photo identification with you; no provisional ballots are available.
There is no mail-in ballot option for no excuse needed absentee.
Early Voting Instructions (https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/)
Within two weeks prior to Election Day, go to your chosen polling location during its posted hours. Depending on the election and time of day, you may have to wait in line.
When it is your turn in line, show your identification to the poll worker.
Fill out your ballot. Your ballot may be paper or electronic, or you may be asked to choose. Election poll workers on location will provide assistance if needed.
Cast your ballot.
Early Voting Locations in St. Louis City/County
Tip #4 - Accessible Voting Systems
If you have a physical disability or mobility challenges and your polling location is not accessible, you can request a more accessible polling location by contacting your local election authority. Every polling place is required to have accessible voting systems such as an audio ballot or enlarged print. Reach out to the poll workers for more assistance when you arrive.
"The right to vote is the crown jewel of American liberties, and we will not see its luster diminished." - Ronald Reagan
In Closing -
According to AARP, adults 50 and older are the largest voting demographic. However, as we age, the voting process can become more complex. If you are struggling to find a way to vote, reach out to your local election authority. There are so many issues facing older adults, from Medicare to healthcare, aging in place, and more. I hope you all make your voice heard and exercise your right to vote!
You might find some of these sites from AARP interesting. AARP is a non-partisan nonprofit that provides voter education and non-partisan information on issues related to those 50+ years old.
Thank you all for reading!
Jenny OTD
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