September 17 marks National Voter Registration Day, a nonpartisan civic observance aimed at promoting democracy and encouraging U.S. citizens to register to vote ahead of the upcoming general election on November 5.
This day also serves as a reminder for Americans to verify their voter registration status, stay informed about key election details, and prepare for absentee voting, which begins on September 20. The Hennepin County Elections website offers essential information on these topics.
On this year’s National Voter Registration Day, members of the League of Women Voters of Minnetonka, Eden Prairie, and Hopkins (LWV MEPH) set up at Hennepin Technical College in Eden Prairie to assist students and staff with voter registration.
The LWV is a nonpartisan organization focused on fostering engaged and informed participation in governance, promoting understanding of significant public policy matters, and influencing public policy through advocacy and education.
Several students visited the LWV’s informational booth during lunchtime on September 17, including Idman Noor, who noted that she would cast her vote in her very first general election this year.
Sharon Borine, president of LWV MEPH, emphasized the importance of empowering voters like Noor. “We are here today for democracy,” she stated, underscoring the significance of individual voting rights. She encouraged everyone to recognize their capacity to effect change through their votes.
The league plans to host more voter registration events in the community, including an upcoming session on Saturday, September 21, at Lush Cosmetics in Ridgedale Center, Minnetonka.
Recently, LWV MEPH organized four candidate forums covering various local races, including those for Eden Prairie’s city council and school board, Hennepin County Commissioner District 6, and Minnesota House Districts 49A and 49B.
Borine reiterated that the League, despite its name, is open to all individuals, not just women. Currently, men account for around 20% of its membership. She also emphasized the organization’s nonpartisan stance, welcoming people of all political affiliations without discrimination.
For further details about LWV MEPH and ways to get involved or participate in upcoming events, interested individuals can visit their website.
In related voting information, Hennepin County provided helpful tips and deadlines as National Voter Registration Day commenced. This key information is also available on the Hennepin County Elections website.
Key points to know before voting include:
– **Sample Ballot**: Review before casting your vote.
– **Early Voting**: Explore options for voting early.
– **Absentee Voting**:
– Complete an absentee ballot application and submit it to Hennepin County Elections, either by mail or email.
– An online application is also available.
– **In-Person Early Voting**: Available before Election Day.
Important deadlines to remember:
– **September 20**: Absentee voting begins for the general election.
– **October 15**: Deadline to pre-register to vote for the general election.
– **November 4**: In-person absentee voting ends at 5 p.m.
– **November 5**: General Election Day with polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For individuals who miss the pre-registration deadline on October 15 but wish to vote, registration can still be completed at their polling place on Election Day. Information about designated polling locations can also be found online.