The Radnorite is proud to announce “The Ballot Box,” a column for civic engagement news, resources, and opportunities. As students, it’s our duty to make the most of every chance for active citizenship. These decisions, particularly those made on the municipal level, have powerful impacts on the student experience. Your vote is your voice – use it! Here’s everything you need to know for the municipal election on November 7th:

Registering to vote (general information):

• The last day to register to vote is October 23, 2023
• How to register:
  • Online with the link above
  • By mail to county voter registration office
  • Delivery to 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 (November 7):

• 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

• What to expect at the polls:
  • 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
• For guidance on voter intimidation, visit this page

Absentee and mail-in ballots:

• The last day to request an absentee or mail-in ballot is October 23, 2023
• 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.”
  • Learn how to vote and return here
• Applications for mail-in ballots can be submitted online, at a county election office, or through the mail
• 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 application must be received by October 31, 2023 by 5pm
• The deadline to return voted absentee or mail-in ballot is November 7, 2023 by 8pm

Be an informed voter:

• For sample ballots and a list of candidates, visit this page

Important dates and deadlines:

• Last day to register to vote: Oct 23
• Your absentee or mail-in ballot application must be received by October 31, 2023 by 5pm
• Election day: Nov 7
  • The deadline to return voted absentee or mail-in ballot is by 8pm

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

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD AND VOTE