There’s no doubt from the TV commercials and yard signs that it’s an election season. With a primary next week and the general election for many federal, state and local offices just months away, there are ample opportunities to influence the way our governments operate. College students are often one of the most overlooked voting blocs because many students don’t know or care about the political scene where they go to school. Here’s how UGA students can influence Athens-Clarke County and state officials to look after our interests.
- For those of you already registered to vote, advance voting ends Friday and can only be done at designated advance voting locations. If you haven’t made to the polls by the end of this week, Primary Election Day is next Tuesday, July 18th from 7:00 A.M.-7:00 P.M. The Secretary of State’s Poll locator can be found here. Don’t forget proper identification!
- If you are voting for the first time and registered to vote by mail, you also need to bring a current utility bill, bank statement, or government document that shows your name and address to prove your residency.
- If you are not registered to vote, then register! The deadline to vote in the November General Election is October 10th.
- And while you are at it, if you are not registered to vote in Athens, then register to vote in Athens. Yes, you can register using a dormitory/fraternity/sorority address. You live in Athens at least 75% of the year, don’t complain about the fraternity housing moratorium, parking meters downtown, or the cruising ban if you do not feel connected enough to the community to help select its lawmakers. Remember, Live in Athens, Vote in Athens.
- Also, the Athens Banner-Herald has released a voter’s guide with candidate information for local and state offices.
