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  • I'm turning 18 just before Election Day. Can I still register to vote?
    Yes! In most states, you can register to vote if you will be 18 by Election Day. Some states even allow you to register and vote in primaries if you'll be 18 by the general election. Check your state's specific rules on the election office website.
  • Do I need to re-register to vote if I'm away at college?
    It depends. You can usually choose to register either at your home address or your college address. If you register at your college address, you'll need to update your registration if you move. Consider which location's elections you want to participate in when deciding.
  • I don't know much about politics. Should I still vote?
    Absolutely! Voting is a learning process, and everyone starts somewhere. Use resources like "The Modern Voter's Guide" to learn about candidates and issues. Remember, your perspective as a young voter is valuable and important.
  • What if I make a mistake on my ballot?
    Don't worry! If you're voting in person and make a mistake, you can ask a poll worker for a new ballot. If voting by mail, carefully follow the instructions for correcting mistakes or request a new ballot if allowed in your state.
  • Do I need to vote for every position on the ballot?
    No, you don't have to vote for every position or issue. It's okay to leave some blank if you're unsure. Focus on the races and issues you feel informed about.
  • Will people know who I voted for?
    No, your specific votes are confidential. While whether you voted is public record, who you voted for is private.
  • What if I'm still undecided on Election Day?
    It's okay to be undecided until Election Day. Keep researching and comparing candidates until you feel comfortable making a choice. Remember, you can always bring notes into the voting booth to help you remember your decisions.
  • I don't drive. Do I need a driver's license to vote?
    Not necessarily. While some states require photo ID, many accept other forms of identification like student IDs, utility bills, or bank statements. Check your state's specific ID requirements well before Election Day.
  • How long does voting usually take?
    It varies, but typically it takes about 10-30 minutes. However, during peak times or in busy areas, it might take longer. Plan for extra time just in case, especially if it's your first time voting.
  • What if I have to work on Election Day?
    Many states require employers to give employees time off to vote. Additionally, you can look into early voting or mail-in voting options in your state. Plan ahead to ensure you can exercise your right to vote.
  • Is it normal to feel nervous about voting for the first time?
    Yes, it's completely normal! Many first-time voters feel nervous. Remember, poll workers are there to help you through the process. You can also ask to have someone you trust accompany you to the polling place for support (though they usually can't join you at the actual voting booth).
  • What if I'm registered but my name isn't on the voter list at the polling place?
    If this happens, ask to cast a provisional ballot. This ensures your vote will be counted once your eligibility is confirmed. Also, double-check that you're at the correct polling place.
  • Can I wear clothing with political messages to the polling place?
    It's best to avoid wearing clothing with candidate names or political slogans when voting. Some states have laws against "electioneering" at polling places. When in doubt, opt for neutral clothing.
  • How can I stay informed about local elections and issues?
    Follow local news sources, attend community meetings, and check your local government's website. You can also use resources like Ballotpedia or your state's Secretary of State website for information on local candidates and measures.
  • What if English isn't my first language? Can I get help understanding the ballot?
    Yes, many jurisdictions provide ballots and voting materials in multiple languages. You're also generally allowed to bring an interpreter with you to the polls. Check with your local election office for specific language assistance options.
  • How do I register to vote?
    You can register to vote online at vote.gov, by mail using the National Mail Voter Registration Form, or in person at your local election office. Some states also offer registration at the DMV or other government agencies.
  • What are the requirements to be eligible to vote?
    Generally, you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and meet your state's residency requirements. Some states allow 17-year-olds to vote in primaries if they'll be 18 by the general election.
  • When is the deadline to register to vote?
    Deadlines vary by state. Some states allow registration up to and including Election Day, while others require registration 15-30 days before the election. Check your state's specific deadline at your state election website or the National Conference of State Legislatures website.
  • How do I check if I'm already registered to vote?
    You can check your registration status at vote.gov or on your state's election website.
  • What identification do I need to bring to vote?
    ID requirements vary by state. Some states require photo ID, others accept non-photo ID, and some don't require ID at all. Check your state's specific requirements on your state election website.
  • How do I find my polling place?
    You can find your polling place by checking your state or local election office website, or by using the polling place locator tool at vote.gov.
  • What are my options for voting?
    Depending on your state, you may be able to vote in person on Election Day, vote early in person, or vote by mail/absentee ballot. Check your state's options on your state election website.
  • How do I request an absentee/mail-in ballot?
    The process varies by state. Generally, you can request a ballot online, by mail, or in person at your local election office. Some states require an excuse for absentee voting, while others offer "no-excuse" absentee voting.
  • What should I do if I encounter problems at my polling place?
    If you encounter issues, you can ask to speak with the chief election judge at your polling place. You can also call the Election Protection hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE for assistance.
  • Can I still vote if I'm in line when the polls close?
    Yes. If you're in line when the polls close, you have the right to cast your ballot.
  • What are the main differences between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump on key issues?
    Harris and Trump have differing views on many issues. For a detailed comparison, refer to the candidate comparison chart in our guide. Key differences include their approaches to healthcare, climate change, immigration, and economic policy.
  • What is Kamala Harris's background and experience?
    Kamala Harris served as a U.S. Senator from California (2017-2021), Attorney General of California (2011-2017), and District Attorney of San Francisco (2004-2011). She became the first woman, first African American, and first Asian American Vice President in 2021.
  • What is Donald Trump's background and experience?
    Donald Trump was the 45th President of the United States (2017-2021). Before entering politics, he was a businessman and television personality, known for his real estate developments and his role on the reality TV show "The Apprentice."
  • What are the candidates' positions on healthcare?
    Harris supports expanding the Affordable Care Act and advocates for a version of Medicare for All. Trump seeks to repeal the Affordable Care Act and supports a more market-driven approach to healthcare.
  • How do the candidates differ on climate change policy?
    Harris supports aggressive action on climate change and backs the Paris Agreement. Trump has expressed skepticism about climate change and withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement during his presidency.
  • What are the candidates' stances on immigration?
    Harris supports a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants and opposes the border wall. Trump advocates for stricter immigration policies and supported the construction of a border wall.
  • How do the candidates plan to address the economy and jobs?
    Harris supports raising the minimum wage and increasing taxes on corporations and high-income earners. Trump emphasizes deregulation and tax cuts to stimulate economic growth.
  • What are the candidates' positions on gun control?
    Harris supports stricter gun laws, including universal background checks. Trump generally opposes new gun control measures and emphasizes Second Amendment rights.
  • How do the candidates approach foreign policy?
    Harris emphasizes rebuilding international alliances. Trump favors an "America First" approach and has been more skeptical of international agreements.
  • What are the candidates' views on education?
    Harris supports free community college and advocates for student debt relief. Trump emphasizes school choice and vocational training.
  • How do Kamala Harris and Donald Trump differ on women's issues such as abortion, women in the workplace, and Title IX?
    Check out the comparison in the Voter's Guide. Here are some key points: Abortion: Kamala Harris supports a woman's right to choose and advocates for the protection of reproductive rights. She has consistently worked to ensure access to safe and legal abortions. In contrast, Donald Trump has taken a pro-life stance, endorsing policies and judicial appointments aimed at restricting abortion access and potentially overturning Roe v. Wade Women in the Workplace: Kamala Harris champions equal pay, family leave policies, and workplace protections against discrimination and harassment. She has advocated for measures to close the gender pay gap and support working mothers. Donald Trump's administration has been more focused on deregulation, which has included rolling back certain workplace protections, though it has also promoted women in business through initiatives led by members of his team, like Ivanka Trump. Title IX Kamala Harris supports the enforcement of Title IX, a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs, and has pushed for stronger protections against sexual harassment and assault in educational institutions. Conversely, Donald Trump's administration made significant changes to Title IX, including new regulations that some argue provide greater due process protections for individuals accused of sexual harassment but have been criticized for potentially discouraging victims from coming forward.
  • What are the views of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump on LGBTQ+ issues, and how does My Site support the local LGBTQ+ community?
    Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have notably different views on LGBTQ+ issues. Kamala Harris has been a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights throughout her political career. She supports measures such as the Equality Act, which aims to prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Additionally, she has been vocal about the need to protect LGBTQ+ youth, trans individuals, and same-sex couples' rights. In contrast, Donald Trump's administration took several actions that were seen as setbacks for LGBTQ+ rights. These included a ban on transgender individuals serving in the military and policies that allowed discrimination against LGBTQ+ people in certain situations based on religious beliefs. His administration's stance was generally viewed as less supportive of LGBTQ+ protections.
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