1 of 1- Goose
- Cogito ergo sum
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- Registered: 1/29/2015
- Posts: 13,427
What You Need to Know
What you need to know as you go to the polls
Today's Election Day, and you're not going to throw away your shot, right? Take comfort in the fact that it'll be all over after today — at least until the next election cycle.
As you head out to vote, here's what you need to know.
HOURS TO VOTE
Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you're still in line at 8 p.m., don't leave. You will still be allowed to vote.
WHERE CAN I VOTE
Check the Department of State's website to find your polling place. It's most likely closer than you think.
WHAT'S THE BEST TIME FOR ME TO VOTE?
Assume the polling places will be crowded right before people start their work day (first thing this morning), lunchtime, and after people get off work in the evening. There is no specific law in Pennsylvania requiring time off to vote, so check with your employer and plan accordingly.
DO I NEED IDENTIFICATION?
Only if you are voting in that location for the first time at your assigned polling place. Otherwise, you don't need it.
Acceptable photo ID should you need it includes your driver's license, a federal- or state-issued photo ID; or a military, employee or student ID. If you're using non-photo ID, it must have your name and address on it. This can include a voter registration card, gun permit, ID issued by the state or federal government, a current utility bill, a bank statement, a paycheck or a government check.
CAN I VOTE VIA TEXT MESSAGE OR ONLINE?
No. Don't even try. These are hoaxes. You can't vote via a hastag on Twitter or through a Facebook post either.
WHAT IF SOMEONE IS PUTTING THE PRESSURE ON ME TO VOTE A CERTAIN WAY
Each polling place has a judge of elections. Let them know immediately. Here's examples of what to report to them:
aggressive behavior in or outside the polling place
uncomfortable questioning by poll watchers or anyone else lingering outside
being asked for documentation when you don't need it
giving you false or misleading information
WHERE CAN I COMPLAIN IF I HAVE LEFT MY POLLING SITE?
Either via the Department of State website or your county boards of elections.
CAN I BRING MY GUN?
You technically can in places where legal firearms aren't prohibited. They're considered contraband in places such as schools or courthouses, so check before you go. But election officials would rather you keep your firearm at home.
WHAT CAN I BRING WITH ME INSIDE THE VOTING BOOTH?
You can bring a voters guide or other election material to use as a reference.
WHO IS ALLOWED INSIDE A POLLING PLACE?
Up to 10 voters at a time and election officials. Also, anyone assisting a voter and no more than one pre-registered poll watcher for a party and one for a candidate at any time.
WHAT IF MY ELIGIBILITY IS CHALLENGED?
It can only be challenged if people question your identity or residency. If the judge of elections rules that either of these apply, you can have someone vouch for you or vote via a paper provisional ballot.
CAN I TAKE A SELFIE?
It depends on your individual county board of election. Ask before you go inside the voting booth. Election officials prefer that any ballot selfies taken be posted outside the polling place, and make sure not to capture anyone else's ballot in the process.
WHO DO I VOTE FOR?
Here's our voters guide, which can help you if you're stumped about which candidate to vote for.
HOW DO I GET THROUGH THIS DAY?
With a sense of humor. Seriously. Also, make sure to allot plenty of tine to travel to your polling place and vote. Bring a book or a charge phone to entertain yourself or your kids if the lines are long. Bring a few extra bucks, because some places may have awesome bake sales for you to take advantage of.
We live in a time in which decent and otherwise sensible people are surrendering too easily to the hectoring of morons or extremists.