Time to Vote!

Posted on October 10, 2012 By Editor Neighborhood News

Early voting begins Oct. 27

In just a few short weeks, local residents will head to the polls to elect the 45th President of the United States — as well as new leaders in many critical local and state races.
Duval County Supervisor of Elections Jerry Holland said for the first time in local voting history, area residents will be issued a four-page ballot. In addition to races for various elected positions, the ballots also will include 11 proposed amendments to the state Constitution. (see front page link to amendments, printed in full at www.residentnews.net)
Holland urges voters to research the amendments and suggested visiting the website of The Collins Center at www.collinscenter.org, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization providing a deeper, objective exploration of the amendments and issues.
Early voting for the Nov. 6 election begins on Oct. 27 and lasts for eight consecutive days, ending Nov. 3. Voters who are considering a vote by mail ballot, which is available to all registered voters, must request a ballot by Oct. 31. Holland said voting by mail is ideal for residents who are unable to stand for long periods of time or are under time constraints from work or school. Voters can request a ballot through www.duvalelections.com or by calling (904) 630-1414.
The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 6. Prior to that date, Holland encourages voters to study the sample ballots mailed out two weeks prior to the election.
“Doing homework and marking your sample ballot will save time at the polls as you simply transcribe your choices to your official Election Day ballot,” he said.
Whether it’s at the polls Nov. 6 or during early voting, the elections office reminds residents to bring a photo and signature identification. A list of acceptable forms of ID is available on the elections office website, which also includes information about early voting locations, hours and wait times.