September 16, 2020
The General Election is Tuesday, November 3rd. There is an unprecedented interest in voting at the same time there is a public health emergency. Fortunately, that means that people are getting better prepared for election day earlier than ever.
We can all do some election prep. Every Wyomingite can take steps right away to help ensure voting is a safe, smooth process.
How can you be ready?
Here are four simple things you can do now to make sure your voice is heard and your vote counts this fall:
1. REGISTER TO VOTE OR CHECK THAT YOUR REGISTRATION IS UP-TO-DATE
You’ll want to make sure that you are still registered to vote. Wyoming purges the voter lists after every general election, so don’t assume anything.
Go here to register if you aren’t already or to update your registration.
2. REQUEST AN ABSENTEE BALLOT
Voting absentee allows you to vote without risking spreading coronavirus waiting in line at a physical polling site.
If you are registered to vote, you’ll need to fill out an application either online or hard copy and mail it in. You can request more information from your County Clerk.
Wyoming’s absentee ballot deadline is the day before the election, but don’t wait. Make your request now.
3. VOTE EARLY, IF YOU CAN
Help your county clerk by signing your ballot correctly and getting it in early.
Once you receive your ballot in the mail, find a time to fill it out, follow the instructions for signing and sealing it, and turn it in. If you prefer to vote in-person, go to the county clerk’s office early.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Ballots in Wyoming have to be received by the time the polls close on Election Day in order to be counted.
4. SPREAD THE WORD
Once you’re all set, help your friends with their election prep:
- If you already voted you can:
- Teach your friends and family how to vote early.
- Post a picture on social media of yourself submitting your ballot and encourage your friends to do the same.
- If you know someone who will turn 18 before November 3, help them register.
- If you know someone who has moved recently or didn’t vote in the primary, remind them to update their registration.
And remind people in your networks that running a secure election during a global pandemic takes time. We might need to wait for the results, but we can rest assured that is because our hard-working officials are verifying every vote.
Equality State Policy Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that does not support, endorse, or oppose any candidate or political party.