With only days left before the November 6, 2012, General Election, Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes is reminding voters of Election Day “Do’s and Don’ts” that will help avoid surprises and ensure a smooth trip to the polls. “Every election matters, and every vote counts,” said Grimes. “I hope providing this information will prepare voters and encourage them to make their voices heard.”
• DO verify your voter registration status and the races in which you will vote before you head to the polls. Registration status is available through the Voter Information Center (VIC). Sample ballots are also available through VIC, and they are printed in newspapers and displayed in each precinct.
• DO know where you vote. You can find the address of and driving directions to your polling location through VIC.
• DO know the most convenient times to vote. Polls tend to be busiest during the morning and evening rush hours and at lunchtime.
• DO bring appropriate identification to your polling location. You must either be known by a precinct officer or produce a driver’s license, social security card, credit card, or other form of identification that contains both a picture and signature in order to cast a ballot.
• DON’T wait until the last minute to head to the polls or be discouraged by long lines. Remember, as long as you are in line by 6 p.m. local time on November 6th, you will be allowed to cast your ballot.
• DON’T campaign or solicit votes within 300 feet of a polling place. Electioneering in the immediate area around a polling place is illegal in Kentucky.
• DON’T record the identity of voters in the voting room, including through the use of cameras and cell phones.
• DO ask a poll worker for instructions on how to use the voting machine or other procedural questions if you are confused about the voting process.
• DO let officials know immediately if you encounter any problems at the polls. You can address issues with your precinct election officers, the county clerk, the State Board of Elections at 502-573-7100, or the Attorney General’s Election Fraud Hotline at 1-800-328-VOTE.
• DON’T forget to thank your poll workers. This election would not be possible without them, and they deserve our appreciation.
• DO remind your friends and family to vote. Our democratic society is at its best when all Kentuckians’ voices are heard at the polls.
• DON’T forget that you can obtain election results in near-real time after the polls have closed by visiting www.elect.ky.gov.
