As most of us know, Tuesday, Nov. 5 is election day. Soon the political ads will end, and many yard signs will come down.
Whether you already have a plan to vote or you’re unsure whether you will vote at all, the Dallas County Health Department encourages you to use this opportunity to have your voice heard by being an informed voter.
There are several races on the ballot besides the presidential election, such as state and county offices, that can have a big impact on local residents. Every vote counts, and many races have come down to just a handful of votes deciding the outcome.
Fortunately, voting can be easy and convenient. There are just a few steps you need to follow to vote in Dallas County:
1. Register to vote. Check the Iowa Secretary of State’s website to see whether you’re already registered. The deadline to pre-register online or via mail has passed, but you can still register at the Dallas County Auditor’s office or when you go to vote in-person. Just be sure to bring proof of ID and residence.
2. Decide how you will vote. The deadline to request an absentee ballot has passed, but you can still vote absentee in person at the County Auditor’s office through Nov. 4. Any Dallas County resident can vote at one of the satellite voting locations. Otherwise, visit your assigned polling location on Tuesday, Nov. 5 between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m.
3. Vote! Be sure to bring any required documents, including a form of ID. Absentee ballots must be received in the auditor’s office by 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5 in order to be counted.
Visit the Dallas County Auditor’s elections office website to learn more about how and where to vote. You can also view sample ballots so you will know exactly what to expect and what you may want research more before voting.
Visit the non-partisan, unbiased votesmart.org to search for specific candidates’ positions on key issues.
The Dallas County Health Department does not endorse any candidates. We encourage civic engagement among all eligible voters. Voting is a powerful way to influence policies that affect community health and your quality of life.
Natalie Peters is the community health educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
