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As the 2024 U.S. Presidential election nears, voters across the country are preparing to cast their ballots on one of the most consequential Election Days in modern history. The Democratic Party's vice president in office, Kamala Harris, was running against the Republican nominee for president, former president Donald Trump, who was seeking reelection.
Following President Joe Biden's withdrawal of his candidacy for reelection on July 21, Harris emerged as the Democratic nominee. Should she be elected, she will become the 16th Vice President to take office and the first female president in American history. With his bid for a nonconsecutive second term, Trump might become only the second person in American history to accomplish so, after Grover Cleveland. If elected, Trump would also become the oldest president to take office, beating out Joe Biden by a few months.
Key Running Mates Announced
Over the course of the summer, the vice presidential running mates for the Republican and Democratic candidates were chosen. Shortly after Trump was the target of an assassination attempt, Trump selected JD Vance at the Republican National Convention. On August 6, Democratic contender Harris announced the choice of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running partner, greatly influencing the contest in the final weeks before Election Day.
Voter Registration: Options and Deadlines
As each state and territory sets its own voter registration rules, citizens have several options to ensure their eligibility to vote:
- Online Registration: Most states offered the option to register online. Voters were encouraged to visit their state or territory’s website to check eligibility.
- Mail Registration: The National Mail Voter Registration Form, available in multiple languages, could be downloaded and printed for voters in states across the U.S. Exceptions included New Hampshire, North Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
- In-Person Registration: For those preferring to register in person, voters could visit state or local election offices or motor vehicles offices.
Ensuring Registration Status
Voters are advised to confirm the information on their registration, including their legal name and residence, particularly if there have been any changes. In several states, primary election participation is contingent upon political party affiliation. Voters’ registration would be considered inactive if they haven’t cast a ballot in the previous two federal elections. To revive their status under such circumstances, it is advised to get in touch with the state or local election officials.
Updating Voter Information
To guarantee eligibility, changes in name or residence have to be documented in voter registration records. It is necessary for voters to register in their new state if they move. States have different deadlines for registering voters; some require revisions as early as 30 days prior to election day.
Certain states permit voting in the presidential election under the prior state's registration for anyone who misses the deadline owing to a recent migration. For non-presidential elections, this option is typically not available, and voters are urged to register as soon as possible at their new address.
Voting From Abroad
With absentee ballots, U.S. residents residing abroad, including military members and their families, may cast their votes. By filling out the Federal Post Card Application, they may register and make ballot requests (FPCA). The Federal Voting Assistance Program offers more information and support.
Political Party Affiliation
In order to cast a ballot in primary elections, voters are reminded that in some states and territories, it is necessary to declare one’s political party allegiance. You can change your party affiliation through local election offices or by filing a new registration.
Voter Registration Deadlines
Since there is no national deadline for voter registration, each state sets its own deadlines. Voters are required to register 30 days before to the election in many states, although Election Day registration is permitted in others. It is advised that voters verify the state-specific dates.
Voter Registration Cards and Identification
Voters frequently get a voter registration card verifying their status after registering. Although the card is not needed to vote, state regulations may demand a valid form of identification. It is suggested that voters look up specific information on authorized forms of identification on their state or municipal election websites.
Voters and politicians alike have to negotiate an unusual political environment as the 2024 presidential election approaches. Ensuring voter registration is an essential step for all eligible residents, since it is anticipated that voter participation will play a significant role in determining the outcome.