Election Day 2020: Voting 101

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Advocacy Blog
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Election day is Tuesday, November 3, 2020. In this year’s election, the President of the United States, as well as candidates for federal, state, and local officials will be on the ballot. Before casting a ballot on election day, we're here to help you make sure everything is in order so you can cast your vote confidently.

Fight Colorectal Cancer’s Flex Your Vote resources answer several common voter questions, so check them out if you haven't already!

DOWNLOAD OUR VOTING PLAN TEMPLATE!

See below for answers to common questions about voting.

Q: How do I know if I’m registered to vote? 

A: To make sure you are registered, visit FightCRC.org/Vote. We can help you register for the first time, check and update your current registration, or request a mail-in ballot. 

Q: How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected voting?

A:  If you are planning to cast your vote in-person, be prepared for longer lines and new procedures such as social distancing and face mask requirements. For cancer patients, voting by mail is an important option if you are concerned about potential exposure to COVID-19. Visit FightCRC.org/Vote to request a mail-in ballot and click here for the most up-to-date information about voting by mail in your state. 

Q: Can I take off work to vote? 

A: Most states require employers to provide employees with time to vote on Election Day. You can check your state’s laws about taking time off from work to vote here. Although these laws vary from state to state, they generally require employers to give employees time off if the polls aren’t open two or three hours outside of the employee’s shift. It’s best to talk to your employer early and make a plan for Election Day. 

Q: If I am still in line when the polls close, do I get to vote? 

A: If you are in line when the polls close, you get to vote. The polling location must allow all voters in line at the time of polls closing to cast their ballot. 

Q: What do I need to do to be ready to vote? 

A: There are five main steps to be ready to vote.

  • Register to Vote. The first step in exercising your right to vote is registering. If you’re not sure if you’re registered, you can fill out our registration form to find out! If you plan on voting by mail, make sure you request your mail-in ballot, too! 
  • Research Your Candidates and Ballot. Learn about the candidates running in your area and where they stand on issues important to you. Download our toolkit for information on ways to engage your candidates, how to connect, and examples of what to say.  
  • Make a Voting Plan. For this year’s election, voting may look a bit different. Creating a voting plan will help you make sure you are prepared for November 3. 
    1. Check what and who is on your ballot. Click here to enter your address and find out what positions you will be voting for on your ballot.
    2. Find your polling place and make sure you have plenty of time! Click here to enter your address and find polling places near you. Be sure to also check the hours that the polling place you choose will be open.
    3. Write it down – Check out our voting plan template for more information.
  • Vote. Whether it’s going to the polls on November 3rd or putting your ballot in the mail, vote!!  
  • Flex It. Snap a #StrongArmSelfie with your “I Voted” sticker after you’ve submitted your ballot! Share a selfie on social media and tag @FightCRC so we can celebrate this community of relentless champions of hope on Election Day!