After more than a year, the U.S. Presidential election is just hours from the finish line. Now it comes down to turnout. No matter what the polls say, people actually casting their votes will determine the outcome of this crucial race.
That’s why protecting that vote on election day is so important.
Donald Trump has called on his supporters to “monitor” polling places. Congress gutted the Voting Rights Act which means that there are fewer Department of Justice civil rights staff on the ground to guarantee there is no discrimination by race, class, gender, language or disability at the polls. In many states there are fewer polling places which might lead to confusion and long lines.
So what can you do? Here is some important information to keep on hand tomorrow as you head to the polls or talk to your neighbors.
1) Carry these numbers on Tuesday.
No matter who you plan to vote for, your vote is your right. If you have problems trying to vote for WHATEVER reason, call the hotlines below and they will help you find assistance in the state you are in. Don’t let intimidation, hoaxes or just plain errors deny your right to vote.
866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683) Our Vote Hotline hotline will be answered live in real time by trained volunteers from 30 minutes before polls open and 30 minutes after polls close in each state.
888-VE-Y-VOTA (888-839-8682) Ve Y Vote Hotline for bilingual English/Spanish assistance from 8 AM-8PM Eastern.
888-API-VOTE (888-274-8683) APIAVote for bilingual assistance in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Urdu, Hindi, and Bengali from 9 AM-9 PM Eastern.
844-418-1682 #YallaVote hotline for bilingual English/Arabic assistance from 6 AM – 11 PM Eastern.
2) Don’t leave without voting.
Some polling places may have long lines. You may find that your name is not listed on the voter rolls. Or someone may try to turn you away. First and foremost don’t leave until you cast your vote. It is your right and your voice. Every state has different rules about provisional ballots, polling place closing times, and ways to cast your vote if there is an error. So check 866OurVote.org for details or call the hotline at 1-866-OUR VOTE if you run into problems.
3) Document any problems or violations.
If someone is unofficially “monitoring” your polling place or otherwise suppressing the vote. If you see dirty tricks like flyers with misinformation or people asking for proof of citizenship. If you see broken polling machines or then share your story by calling 1-866-OUR-VOTE or visit 866OurVote.org to make sure the problem is addressed.
Tomorrow millions of people will cast votes determining the direction of the country and the world. Let’s make sure every vote is counted.
