The ability to cast a vote is central to American democracy. Unfortunately, many people do not exercise their right to vote – some because they don’t think their vote matters, others because they don’t care, and many others because they don’t know where and how to vote. Changes in districts, early voting, and ID policies make it additionally confusing. In 2020 in North Carolina we are also seeing a rise in voter intimidation and issues around early poll closings and misinformation that keep people from exercising this important right. Social workers can play an important role in helping their clients and communities access the ballot – regardless of how those people plan to vote. Further, many policies that impact the people we serve are local, highlighting the importance of local elections. This blog provides a wealth of resources to help educate social workers and others about voting in North Carolina.
When can I vote?
Primary Election Day: March 3, 2020
Early Voting: February 13, 2020 – February 29, 2020
Voter Registration Deadline: February 7, 2020
Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot: February 25, 2020
Deadline to Return Completed Absentee Ballot: March 3, 2020
Where and when do I vote?
Click on each county to for more information regarding early voting sites and times.
Orange County Durham County Wake County
What do I need to vote?
- You need to be registered in order vote. How do you register? Click here for more information.
- You DO NOT need a photo ID to vote in the 2020 Primary! The only voters who need to bring identification are:
- New voters who didn’t list an ID number or last 4 of Social Security number on their registration application. Bring any photo ID or a utility bill, bank statement, online bill, pay stub or government document with your address on it.
- Voters who register and vote at the same time during Early Voting. If you use same-day registration, be sure to bring: a government photo ID or a document (or online bill) with your name and current address: bank statement, utility bill, pay stub or government document.
- Click here for more information
Who is running and what’s on the ballot?
VOTE411 is a non-partisan website where you can find candidate information for those running in your county and state. Additional information on what is going to be on the ballot can be found here.
Where can I find out more?
The following are websites and resources with a wealth of other information on voting rights and ways to get involved with voting in the 2020 elections.
- You Can Vote NC: Trains and mobilizes volunteers to educate, register, and empower all North Carolina Citizens to successfully cast their ballot
- Democracy NC:Democracy North Carolina is a nonpartisan organization that uses research, organizing, and advocacy to increase voter participation, reduce the influence of big money in politics and achieve a government that is truly of the people, by the people and for the people.
- NASW: NASW-NC is committed to helping social workers be informed about the upcoming elections in 2020. This page will be updated periodically leading up to and during the elections.
How can I help?
Organizations such as DemocracyNC provide training to people who are willing to volunteer to serve as poll monitors. Ask at your organization if there are people who may need extra help getting to the polls and casting their votes – offer to lend a hand. Share the information in this blog widely. And most importantly – VOTE!
