Casting your ballot is easier when you plan ahead. Spend a few minutes now to make sure you’re ready when it’s time to vote.
✔ Confirm You’re Registered
Registration deadlines vary by state. Don’t assume you’re still registered because you’ve voted before. If you’ve recently moved, changed your name, or haven’t voted in several elections, check your registration status and update it if necessary.
✔ Learn What’s on Your Ballot
Many local races receive little media attention, yet they often have the greatest impact on your community. Review your sample ballot ahead of time and learn about the candidates and ballot questions you’ll be voting on.
✔ Check Your Union’s Recommendations
Many international unions, state AFL-CIO federations, Central Labor Councils, and local unions interview candidates and publish endorsements or voter guides. These resources can help you understand where candidates stand on issues that matter to working people.
✔ Verify Where and When You’ll Vote
Find your polling place before Election Day and check its hours of operation. If your state offers early voting or vote-by-mail, decide which option works best for you.
✔ Know What You’ll Need
Some states require identification to vote. Find out what forms of ID are accepted and gather anything you’ll need before heading to the polls.
✔ Make a Time Commitment
Don’t simply plan to vote “sometime Tuesday.” Decide exactly when you’ll vote.
Will you stop before work? During your lunch break? After your shift? Vote in early voting? Putting a specific time on your calendar makes it much more likely you’ll follow through.
✔ Plan for Any Obstacles
Think ahead about transportation, childcare, work schedules, or anything else that could interfere with voting. Solving those problems in advance helps ensure nothing gets in the way on Election Day.
✔ Encourage Others
Voting is contagious. After you’ve made your own plan, remind your coworkers, friends, and family members to make theirs. Offer someone a ride to the polls, share official election information, or simply ask if they have a voting plan.
Helpful Resources
Vote.org – A nonpartisan resource to check voter registration, find your polling place, view election deadlines, and access state election information.
Your State Election Office – Official information on voter registration, polling locations, voting deadlines, early voting, absentee voting, and voter ID requirements.
Your State AFL-CIO – Statewide labor endorsements, voter guides, volunteer opportunities, and election information.
Your Central Labor Council – Local labor activities, endorsements, and volunteer events in your community.
Your International or Local Union – Candidate endorsements, legislative updates, and information on issues affecting your members.
