Seniors who are or will be eighteen by the primary election on May 16 have the opportunity to make their voices heard by voting.  Historically, citizens ages 18-29 have participated with the lowest voting turnout of all age groups.  In 2018, for instance, youth voters represented a mere 13 percent of the electorate, despite constituting “nearly 22 percent of the voting-age population.”  This under-representation at the polls should not be attributed to youth apathy or civic disengagement.  In truth, the demands of voting, including registration and state-based regulations, are often non-conducive to the lifestyles of young people.  For many, the time spent between the ages 18-29 is very transitional with education, moving, job changes, and other typical pursuits.  Nor can we blame Millennials and Gen Z specifically.  In the 1976 election, voters aged 18-29 accounted for just 13 percent of the electorate – just like in 2018.  Other reports also indicate that current civic curriculums, pre-registration laws, and minimal catering by politicians to the youth also discourage voting.

Radnor seniors, you have the power to change this!  Here is what you need to know:

Registering to vote (general information):

The last day to register to vote was Monday, May 1 – below, you’ll find what to expect during the registration process in the future!

How to register:

• Online
• By mail
• In person (at county voter registration office)
• In person (at Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and some other Government Agencies)

-To be eligible to register to vote, you must be:

• A U.S. citizen one month prior to the election
• A Pennsylvania resident one month prior to the election
• 18 years of age on or before Election Day

-To find out or confirm if you are already registered to vote, visit here

Voting in-person at the polls (May 16, 2023):

-Polling places can be found online

• After filling out the form, you will find the directions and accessibility criteria for your given polling location

-The polls are open from 7am to 8pm, here’s what to expect:

• A poll worker will check you in using your voter registration card
• Follow the poll worker’s instructions carefully, as procedures may change between locations and sessions
• First time voters will be asked to provide a photo ID
• Those eligible to vote a regular ballot will be provided a paper ballot or instructed to use a ballot marking device
• Those ineligible to vote a regular ballot will be provided a provisional ballot

-For a video demonstration of what to expect at the polls, visit here

Absentee and mail-in ballots:

The last day to request an absentee or mail-in ballot is Tuesday, May 9 (5pm)

-Absentee ballot information and definition:

• “If you plan to be out of the municipality on election day or if you have a disability or illness that prevents you from going to your polling place on election day.”
• A reason for your ballot must be indicated
• This is how college students must vote
• Apply online for an absentee ballot here

-Mail-in ballot information and definition:

• “Any qualified voter may apply for a mail-in ballot. You may simply request this ballot without a reason.”
• Apply online for a mail-in ballot here

-Applications for mail-in ballots can be submitted online, at a county election office, or through the mail

-You can requests an automatic annual absentee or mail-in ballot

• For more information, visit this page

-You can opt to vote at a polling place if you have and received an absentee or mail-in ballot by voiding the ballot and pre-addressed return envelope at the polls 

-You cannot change your ballot once it is sent to the County Election Board

-Your absentee or mail-in ballot must be received by Tuesday, May 16 (8pm)

Be an informed voter:

-For a voting checklist, visit the Ready to Vote page

-For candidate details, ballot guides, and other personalized voting information visit VOTE411

-Sample ballots can be found here

Important dates and deadlines:

-Last day to register to vote: May 1

-The last day to request an absentee or mail-in ballot: May 9 by 5pm

-Election Day: May 16

• Absentee and mail-in ballots must be returned by 8 pm

Just like any other habit, voting requires energy and repetition.  Begin that process now and vote!

A voice is a peculiar thing.  You can bellow all you want, but it’s not until someone takes the time to listen that you’ll be heard – and you’re often left with a sore throat.

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD AND VOTE