COLUMBIA, SC – Countdown to Election Day Begins!
It’s hard to believe, but we are now only 60 days away from a moment that many of us have been waiting for—the election that will decide who becomes the 47th President of the United States. It’s a pretty exciting time, not just on the national level but here in South Carolina as well!
John Michael Catalano, a representative with the SC Election Commission, shared some insights about what’s at stake this year. Not only will South Carolinians get to weigh in on the presidency, but every state and house seat in the general assembly will also be on the ballot. That means your voice matters more than ever!
So, What Else Can We Expect?
In addition to statewide races, voters will find a variety of local offices up for grabs. Offices like county auditor, county council, and if you’re in some areas, even city elections and school boards will also be part of the mix. It’s a great opportunity to choose the leaders who make decisions affecting our daily lives.
Important Dates to Remember
With all this excitement, there’s a lot to keep in mind to ensure you’re ready come Election Day. If you haven’t registered to vote yet, keep in mind that you must do so at least 30 days before election day. So don’t put it off any longer!
For our military members and South Carolinians living overseas, absentee ballots will begin to be sent out on September 21st. For those voting domestically, you can expect your absentee ballots to be mailed out 30 days before November 8th. It’s essential to stay on top of this if you plan to vote by mail!
Early Voting: A Smart Choice
Have you thought about early voting? This year, in-person early voting kicks off on October 21st and lasts until November 2nd. Catalano suggests everyone take advantage of this option. It not only helps lessen the lines on the actual Election Day but also allows election officials to manage the flow of voters more effectively.
Transparency in the Voting Process
As we dive deeper into the political fray, you may have questions about the integrity of the election process. The SC Election Commission is committed to transparency, assuring us that we can witness virtually every step of the process. This includes everything from the preparation of voting equipment to logical and accuracy tests conducted prior to election day.
What’s more, each county will undergo hand-count audits to ensure the results are accurate—these audits are open to the public. Rest assured, South Carolina takes the integrity of our elections seriously. For those worried about foreign influence, Catalano made it clear: “There have been no instances of non-U.S. citizens illegally voting in our state.” However, they remain vigilant and prepared to investigate any concerns.
Get Ready to Vote!
When the time comes to cast your vote, don’t forget to bring a valid photo I.D. and familiarize yourself with your sample ballot beforehand. A one-stop online resource can help guide you through the voting process and ensure you’re well-prepared. This is crucial as we gear up for a busy election season!
So here’s to an engaging and exciting election atmosphere in Columbia and across South Carolina, where your voice truly matters!
