How to Register to Vote

With the presidential election looming in November, it is important for everyone’s voice to be heard. To make that happen, you must register to vote.

There are three ways to register: by mail, online or in person. The registration deadline by mail and online is October 19th. The deadline for in person registration is on election day, November 3rd. 

The legal voting age was lowered to 18 after the ratification of the 26th Amendment in 1971. As a result, voter participation plummeted. According to the U.S. Census only 39.4% of 18-to-24 year olds voted in the 2016 presidential election. 

“Laws that could benefit them and their values are underrepresented…because they don’t vote” history teacher Maurice Allmacher said.

One main reason why young adults don’t vote is because they think it doesn’t affect them. However, the next presidential term isn’t the only thing up for grabs in November.

“The president has the ability to appoint governmental positions to certain people” english and publications teacher Alexis Campion said.

For example, the president has the power to appoint Supreme Court judges. They can appoint judges that have the same ideals, so they can pass laws that meet their agendas.

So how do you register to vote? Here are the steps and requirements to follow for you to be set for election day on November 3rd:

 

Steps to register

  1. Verify you are eligible 
  2. Fill out application 
  3. Submit application 
  4. City or township clerk processes application 
  5. Boom you’re in 

 

Requirements:

  • Proof of address (Michigan residency) for at least 30 days
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Currently not serving a sentence in jail or prison
  • You need proof of where you live, such as drivers license, state ID card, other gov document
  • After registering, you can vote as an absent voter ballot (a vote cast by someone who is unable or unwilling to attend the official polling station) or you can vote at your polling station on election day