Vote In-person If you are opting to vote in-person either early or on Election Day, we’ve compiled some helpful tips to assist you as you prepare. Here are some important questions to consider: - Will you be voting early before October 31st or on Election Day, November 3rd?
- What time of day will you vote? In the morning, at lunch, or after work?
- Would you prefer to vote during the weekend?
- How are you getting to the polling place and how long will the commute take?
Find Your Polling Place Once you've considered these important questions, you'll need to know where to go to vote. Currently, there are dozens of official polling places open throughout the state to accommodate early voters. By looking up your local registrar’s office or a satellite voting location in your county or city ahead of time, you can save yourself some last minute searching and make the voting process go smoother. Most polling locations are open Monday through Saturday between now and October 31st, and many more will be open on Election Day from 6AM - 7PM. Tip #1: Be sure to write down the address and official hours for the polling place in your area, because each location is different. Research What and Who is on the Ballot An important part of preparing to vote is building in time to look up a sample ballot and research the candidates. Even if you know who you’re voting for at the top of the ticket, looking up a sample ballot helps prepare you for the other races that directly impact so much of our daily lives. This year, in addition to the presidential race, there are US Senate and House seats and a range of local and municipal seats on the ballot. Plus, Virginians have two ballot measures to consider as well. Be sure to research the candidates and the issues ahead of time in order to make informed decisions. Tip #2: Use this really handy tool to look up a sample ballot for your district. What to Bring Voting in-person - whether early or on Election Day - will look pretty similar. You’ll want to bring an acceptable form of ID, which does not have to be a photo ID and can range from a current utility bill, bank statement, or can even be a valid student ID. If you don’t have an acceptable form of ID, you can still vote by signing an ID confirmation statement at the polling place or by requesting a provisional ballot - you should not be turned away. We encourage you to keep the ACLU-VA’s 2020 Voter Empowerment Card and the Election Protection Number (866-687-8683) handy, in case you encounter any issues at your polling place. Tip #3: Make sure to also bring a mask and the PPE you feel comfortable with. Most polling places will have hand sanitizer on site, but it never hurts to bring your own. The outcome of this election will be crucial for the future of LGBTQ equality in our state and in our nation. Whatever way you decide to vote - by mail-in ballot, early in-person, or on Election Day - choose the process that best fits your situation, and make your voice heard. See you at the polls!
-All of us at Equality Virginia | 
