The health of our planet and the health of our democracy go hand in hand because our nation’s biggest environmental challenges require political solutions. From local initiatives to national policies, every elected official on the ballot plays a crucial role in shaping decisions that affect our communities.
Your vote is your voice, and our freedom to vote enables us to work toward a more sustainable future for all. To make sure you’re ready to make your voice heard on (or before!) November 5th here’s what you can do right now:
1. Make sure you’re registered to vote
The first step in getting ready to cast your ballot this fall is registering to vote or checking and updating your voter registration. Depending on where you live, you can either register to vote online, by mail, or in person at your local election office. Many states even offer same-day voter registration and allow voters to register during early voting periods or on Election Day.
If you’re thinking about skipping this step because you think you’re already registered – think again. There are plenty of reasons to double-check your registration, including:
If you recently moved or your address has changed
If you legally changed your name
If you just became a U.S. citizen
If you had your voting rights restored
If you haven’t voted in a couple of years
If you have 3 minutes to spare and you plan on voting in this election
Want to vote for candidates who will protect people and the planet? Go to lcv.org/vote-climate to find endorsed candidates in your area!
States have varying options for how, when, and where you can cast your ballot, so check your state’s voting methods and choose the one that works best for you. Depending on where you live, you may have several options:
Some states require voters to show a valid ID for in-person voting, so before you head to the polls, make sure you have everything you need.
3. Learn what’s on your ballot
We’re not just voting for the president this November — there are also elections for U.S. representatives, U.S. senators, governors, state legislatures, ballot measures, and other local and state offices happening across the country that have a HUGE impact on your everyday life.
Take some time to learn about the candidates and issues on your ballot, because voting isn’t supposed to be a pop quiz. Knowing what’s at stake ahead of time ensures you’re prepared when it comes time to vote.
Want to find candidates who will work to protect people and the planet? Go to lcv.org/vote-climate and enter your address to see candidates running in your area who are endorsed by LCV Action Fund or its state affiliates.
4. Share your voting plan with your friends and family
After you’ve made sure you’re registered, learned what’s on your ballot, and decided how you’ll cast your vote, it’s time to share your voting plan with your friends and family. Make sure they know key details like registration deadlines, upcoming elections in their area, when and where to vote, and what they need to bring to the polls. You can even encourage them to sign up for election reminders, so they don’t miss any important updates or deadlines.
People are more likely to vote when they’re asked by someone they know. So, round up your friends, grab a coffee, and make your voices heard together.
5. Know your rights as a voter
Whether you’re voting early, in person, or by mail, it’s important to know your rights as a voter. Every voter has the right to make their voice heard without experiencing barriers or intimidation. If you’re voting in person and find yourself waiting in a long line when the polls close, don’t leave—stay in line. As long as you’re in line at your polling location before the official closing time, you have the right to vote. If for some reason you’re told you can’t cast a ballot, request a provisional ballot to ensure your vote is counted and make sure you’re told how you can verify your eligibility.
If you experience any difficulties voting or have questions about the voting process, call or text the Election Protection Hotlines:
866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683) – English language hotline
888-VE-Y-VOTA (888-839-8682) – Spanish language hotline
844-YALLA-US (844-925-5287) – Arabic language hotline
American Sign Language video call number: 301-818-VOTE (301-818-8683)
Our democracy works best when every voter participates. Casting your ballot means shaping the future of our planet, our democracy, and our communities for generations to come. Make your plan to vote TODAY at lcv.org/vote.
