Your vote matters! Being an informed voter means knowing and utilizing the power and influence of your vote. This guide will help you to:
This session will cover how to know and utilize the power of your vote. Learn how to research the candidates and issues on your ballot, check your facts, know your voting rights, and make a plan to vote. Three sessions will be offered:
Use these directories to find links to candidates' official websites.
These non-partisan websites allow you to compare candidates side-by-side.
These websites will help you find endorsements (statements of support) for candidates by special interest groups, the media, and individuals.
These websites will help you find candidates' voting histories (how the candidates have voted on specific issues, if they have previously held elected office).
These websites allow you to track who has given money to each candidate's campaign, how much each candidate has received, and how much has been spent.
Use a variety of news sources to get a more complete understanding of the issues. Using library databases, you can search hundreds of subscription-based sources.
Use local news sources to research local issues.
These resources provide arguments for and against on key political issues.
Interest groups can advocate for an issue or a group of people. Learn how these groups represent their constituents on the issues.
Use these resources to learn your community's current status on key political issues.
Not sure how to vote because you're not sure what the office does? Use these websites to learn more.
In addition to candidates running for office, your ballot may include ballot measures, such as proposed constitutional amendments. Learn how these ballot measures may impact you.
Watching debates, interviews and speeches gives you first-hand, unfiltered information about the candidates.
Find out which politicians' claims have been confirmed or debunked.
These resources will help you learn to do your own fact checking!
Plan your vote! Ensure you are registered to vote. Know what you should and should not expect at the polls, and know whom to contact if you encounter any difficulty.
Plan your vote! If you plan to vote in person, set a date to cast your vote and know where to go.
Use these websites to find general information about voting by mail.
Use these links to request vote by mail ballots in your county.