October 27, 2020
One week to vote: Be an informed voter and make your plan
Submitted by Timothy J. Shaffer
In one week, the United States will have the general election selecting its next president, vice president, senators, members of Congress and offices at the state level. We'll also decide judges and ballot issues. In Manhattan, for example, a question about local sales tax is on the ballot. The impact of all these races and issues is significant. Your voice — your vote — is critical. So have you voted? If not, make a plan and vote. How are you #voteready?
Today, Oct. 27, is the last day to request a mail-in advance ballot, but you are encouraged to consider voting early in person in the K-State Student Union at the following times:
- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26, through Friday, Oct. 30.
- Final day: 10 a.m. to noon Monday, Nov. 2.
K-State students, like those of many universities, have infrequent contact with local candidates and often need a primer of their stands on local issues before an election.
Fortunately, there are groups working to fill that gap, and you still have one week to get acquainted with the Riley County ballot, if that is your polling county. You can watch the following:
- Candidate Forum Oct. 18 organized by Manhattan Riley County League of Women Voters.
- People's Forum Sept. 16 coordinated by Manhattan Alliance for Peace and Justice.
Not voting in Riley County? Learn who/what is on your ballot from local newspapers, Vote411.org and other nonpartisan groups who disseminate knowledge that helps county election offices achieve fuller voter participation. Ballotpedia is another reliable, nonpartisan website that offers a list of local candidates and guidelines for finding local information on candidates and ballot questions.
Take the time, do research with a friend and take notes for yourself. You've done this for exams, now do this for your voice in this year's election!
#catsvotepurple