Have You Registered a Voter Today?

Of 100 random people you know, 50 or more of them didn't bother to vote in the last election, and as many as 20 or 30 may not even be properly registered. Don't assume your friends, neighbors, classmates, relatives, babysitters, deli counter lady, barista, hairstylist are all registered to vote - ASK! Even if they are not decidedly for McCain, it is important that they have a chance to participate in the process.

Registration deadlines are happening *already* - see state-by-state detailed instructions for registering are here. Voters can also register through www.johnmccain.com.

Some people who might not be registered:

• College students or recent graduates
• Young adults who have turned 18 since the last major election
• People who have recently moved
• People who have recently changed their name (new brides??)
• People who recently became citizens
• People who are living out of state ('snowbirds')
• People who you've never heard discussing politics
• Military families in the U.S. and abroad
• Grandparents now living with family or in retirement housing

Most states allow any voter to register 'absentee' so you can vote from home, at your convenience. Some people who might want to consider registering absentee:

• Expectant Moms due this fall
• Seniors or those with health concerns that might make a long poll wait unsafe
• People who don't drive (or whose family only has one vehicle)
• Moms who have no childcare for little ones
• People in rural areas who live far from polling places
• People in areas affected by inclement weather (snowy Novembers)
• People who travel on business
• People whose work involves emergencies and last-minute schedule changes
• People who are forgetful

I want to challenge everyone reading this blog to forward this link to your address book and ask 10 people a day: are you registered to vote? If you have registration ideas or success to share, please leave a comment. Thanks!