YALLA VOTE ‘08 Our Voice. Our Future.

Did you know, you don’t have to wait until November 4th to cast your vote? Starting today, much of America  will start to cast their  ballots, six weeks before the general election.

“Absentee voting” is done by mail; “Early Voting” requires that voters cast their ballots in person at the offices of county clerks or other approved voting stations. At least 34 states, plus the District of Columbia, allow residents to vote before November 4th.

In a year that promises record turnout, making your choice early might be a good idea.

Big question is, where is it permitted, and what are the guidelines?

The following states permit ‘no-excuse’ absentee balloting: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

These states require that an absentee ballot be signed  by a witness or notary public: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas,California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia

In addition, many states require that absentee ballots be signed by a witness or notary public, in some instances only when a voter has required assistance with the ballot, but other states make it mandatory across the board. The National Conference of State Legislatures website does a great job of breaking it down for you here. Be sure to check their table of when things are due where.