60 Action Items for Preparing to Vote in a Presidential Election!

Voting in a presidential election is one of the most powerful ways to shape the future of your country. With so much at stake, being fully prepared to cast your vote is crucial. Whether you’re a first-time voter or a seasoned participant in democracy, this list of 60 action items will guide you through everything you need to know and do before Election Day. From checking your voter registration status to understanding the candidates and propositions on the ballot, these steps will help ensure that your voice is heard and your vote counts.

60 things you can do to prepare to vote in a presidential election:

1. Check Your Voter Registration Status: Make sure you’re registered to vote and that all your information is accurate and up-to-date.

2. Register to Vote: If you’re not registered yet, take the time to get registered before the deadline approaches.

3. Research Your State’s Voting Deadlines: It’s crucial to know the deadlines for voter registration, absentee ballots, and early voting in your state.

4. Update Your Address: If you’ve recently moved, be sure to update your voter registration with your new address.

5. Request an Absentee Ballot: If you plan to vote by mail, request your absentee ballot as early as you can.

6. Review Your State’s Voter ID Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the specific ID requirements needed to vote in your state.

7. Make a Voting Plan: Decide in advance whether you’ll vote in person on Election Day, early, or by mail.

8. Research the Candidates: Take the time to study the platforms and policies of the presidential candidates thoroughly.

9. Understand the Electoral Process: Learn how the Electoral College works and how your vote impacts the overall election.

10. Study the Ballot Propositions: Review any local or state ballot measures that will be on your ballot.

11. Practice Voting with a Sample Ballot: Filling out a sample ballot can help you familiarize yourself with the voting process.

12. Confirm Your Polling Place: Find out where your designated polling place is located before Election Day.

13. Check Polling Hours: Know the opening and closing times of your polling place on Election Day to plan your visit.

14. Arrange Transportation: If you need a ride to the polls, arrange it well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

15. Take Time Off Work: If necessary, plan ahead to take time off work to ensure you can vote without stress.

16. Pack Your Voting Essentials: Prepare a bag with your ID, mask, sanitizer, and anything else you might need.

17. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Dress in comfortable clothing, especially if you anticipate standing in line for a while.

18. Prepare for Long Waits: Bring snacks, water, and something to read or listen to in case of long lines at the polls.

19. Double-Check Your Ballot: Before submitting your ballot, review it carefully to ensure it’s filled out correctly.

20. Sign Up for Election Day Alerts: Get notifications about any changes or updates on Election Day to stay informed.

21. Download a Voting App: Use an app to track your absentee ballot or get real-time updates about voting.

22. Attend a Voter Education Event: Participate in local events to learn more about the candidates and issues on the ballot.

23. Check Your Voting Rights: Know your rights as a voter, especially if you encounter any issues at the polls.

24. Research Polling Place Accessibility: If you have disabilities, make sure your polling place is accessible.

25. Locate Early Voting Sites: Find out where you can vote early if that’s part of your voting plan.

26. Sign Up for Voter Reminders: Get text or email reminders about important voting deadlines and Election Day itself.

27. Participate in Mock Elections: Engage in mock elections to better understand the process and practice voting.

28. Volunteer as a Poll Worker: Consider helping at a polling place to ensure the voting process runs smoothly.

29. Learn About Voting Technology: Familiarize yourself with the voting machines or ballots that will be used in your area.

30. Read Up on Election Security: Educate yourself about how elections are secured and what you can do to help ensure a fair process.

31. Understand Voter Suppression Tactics: Be aware of potential voter suppression efforts and learn how to combat them.

32. Encourage Others to Vote: Talk to friends and family about the importance of voting and help them prepare.

33. Join a Get-Out-the-Vote Effort: Participate in campaigns that aim to increase voter turnout in your community.

34. Report Voter Intimidation: Know how to report any instances of voter intimidation or fraud you may encounter.

35. Know the Provisional Ballot Process: Understand what to do if you encounter issues with your registration on Election Day.

36. Learn About Absentee Ballot Deadlines: Make sure you submit your absentee ballot by the deadline to ensure it’s counted.

37. Review Voting Security Measures: Familiarize yourself with the security measures in place to protect the integrity of your vote.

38. Research Voter Registration Purges: Check if your state has purged voter rolls recently and re-register if necessary.

39. Understand Ranked-Choice Voting: If your area uses ranked-choice voting, learn how to properly fill out your ballot.

40. Prepare to Vote Abroad: If you’re overseas, know the process for casting your vote as an expatriate.

41. Join a Voter Caravan: Participate in organized efforts to bring voters to the polls in a group setting.

42. Check Your Mailbox Regularly: Keep an eye out for election mail, including your absentee ballot or voter information.

43. Attend a Candidate Forum: Listen to candidates speak about their platforms and answer voter questions.

44. Join a Voter Education Campaign: Help educate others about the voting process and important issues on the ballot.

45. Create a Voting Checklist: Write down everything you need to do to ensure you’re fully prepared to vote.

46. Check Your State’s Voting Laws: Be aware of the specific voting laws in your state, including deadlines and requirements.

47. Verify Ballot Drop Box Locations: Find out where you can securely drop off your absentee ballot.

48. Read Up on Election Day Logistics: Understand the process of voting in person, from check-in to casting your ballot.

49. Consider Curbside Voting: If you have mobility issues, look into whether curbside voting is an option for you.

50. Learn About Mail-In Voting: Understand how to properly complete and return a mail-in ballot to ensure it’s counted.

51. Contact Your Local Election Office: Reach out with any questions about voting in your area and clarify any concerns.

52. Stay Informed About Election News: Keep up with the latest news and updates related to the election and voting process.

53. Set a Voting Reminder: Mark your calendar and set alarms to remind you when and where to vote.

54. Verify Your Voter Registration Confirmation: Double-check that your registration has been confirmed after submitting it.

55. Review Your Voting History: Check your past voting history to ensure your participation is recorded accurately.

56. Know Your Absentee Ballot Status: Track your absentee ballot to make sure it’s received and counted by election officials.

57. Understand Same-Day Registration: If available in your state, know how to register and vote on the same day.

58. Learn About Election Integrity Initiatives: Support efforts that promote fair and secure elections.

59. Prepare for Potential Challenges: Have a plan in place for what to do if you encounter any issues at the polls.

60. Celebrate Your Vote: After casting your vote, take a moment to celebrate your contribution to democracy!