Alabama Voters 2020 Roadmap
If 2020 were a job description, the top required skill would be adaptability. While voting has always looked different state to state, this year requires even the most seasoned voters to learn new tricks.
The countdown is on to the biggest event in U.S. politics. The Olympics, the World Cup and Leap Day are among the most anticipated quadrennial occasions, but the U.S. Presidential General Election Day takes the cake as our team favorite.
Like many other things, voting looks much different this year than it did before. So whether it’s your first time voting or you want to know how to safely cast your ballot during COVID-19, PERITUS is here to help you weigh your options and determine how to make your voice heard on November 3rd.
First Things First
Start by checking your registration status. Be sure everything is updated and accurate, especially your address. Pro tip: you can use your address to access a sample ballot and see what you’ll be voting on – we can almost guarantee it’s more than you think. Be careful not to overlook what’s happening in your own backyard – local policies and public officials are more likely to affect your day-to-day than the “big-ticket” ballot items.
Consider This Your Official Cal Invite
As we navigate the challenges of balancing remote work and personal responsibilities, we continue to rely on our calendars more than ever. Voting deadlines should be handled with the same intention. So as a next step, mark these dates as “high priority.”
October 19 - Last day to register
October 29 - Last day to apply for an absentee ballot or vote absentee in-person
November 2 - Last day to submit an absentee ballot (in person or by mail)
November 3 - Election Day
Decisions, Decisions
In Alabama, we can choose one of three voting methods:
Early or “Absentee in-person” Voting
Mail-in Absentee Voting
Voting at the Polls
How do you know which voting method is right for you? Use our handy guide below to determine how you would like to exercise your right to vote this Election Day. No matter how you vote, do your due diligence to make informed decisions that align your vote with your values.
1. Early or “Absentee In-person” Voting
Election Day is the last day to vote, not the first. Skip the line without cutting by casting your ballot early at your local Absentee Election Manager’s Office.
Gather your materials: ID, mask, hand sanitizer.
Pro tip: Bring your own black, ballpoint pen and a glue stick to seal your voting packet so you don’t have to lick the envelope.
Ask the clerk for an absentee ballot application.
Pro tip: If you have access to a printer, save time by printing and filling out your absentee ballot application in advance.
Return the complete application and present your ID to the clerk to get your voting packet which will include your ballot and an affidavit.
Follow the instructions carefully to complete your voting packet.
Have two staff witness your affidavit.
Double check that you have completed all instructions properly.
Seal your voting packet and place it in the ballot box.
Celebrate your civic engagement! (And one less thing on your to-do list.)
2. Absentee/Mail-in Voting
More of a homebody these days? We feel you. Cast your vote in loungewear by opting to mail your ballot.
Pro tip: Watch this helpful tutorial from the Alabama Secretary of State Office.
Mail your completed application to your local election office. Be sure to sign and date the form and remember to include a photocopy of your ID.
Eagerly await your voting packet.
Once you receive your packet, follow the instructions carefully.
Where it asks for your reason for mail-in voting, select: “I have a physical illness or infirmity which prevents my attendance at the polls.”
Have two people witness your affidavit.
Pro tip: Plan ahead to get together with two friends to witness each other’s affidavits.
Double check that you have completed all instructions properly.
Mail your ballot to your Absentee Election Manager’s Office using the return envelope.
Pro tip: Track your ballot to make sure your vote is counted.
Cheers! Now back to binging Veep.
3. Voting at the Polls
Old school? We love it, just anticipate a wait – bring snacks, wear comfy shoes, dress for the weather, download an audiobook and, most importantly – wear a mask.
Gather your materials: ID, mask, hand sanitizer.
Pro tip: Bring your own black, ballpoint pen.
Present your ID to the poll workers to get your ballot.
Follow the instructions carefully to fill in your ballot.
Place your complete ballot into the ballot box.
Proudly sport your “I Voted” sticker and celebrate your civic engagement!
Our PUBLISHED by PERITUS takeaway is this:
While elections can feel daunting during such an unprecedented climate, this season presents a special opportunity to remember that voting is a right and a privilege that has been and continues to be fought for every day. Things may look a little different this year, but, come rain or come COVID, your vote matters.
Help us get out the vote by sharing this guide with your networks. Make a voting plan and then help your friends and family do the same. Volunteer to be a poll worker. Do what you can to make voting easy and accessible to your neighbors. Together, we can set a record for voter turnout and have our voices heard on November 3rd.
We encourage you to follow us on social media where we’ll be continuing the conversation until Election Day.