Your Vote Counts in November

Voting is fundamental to our democratic system. It allows citizens the opportunity to choose their representation and the issues that matter to them. At LaGrone Law, we believe it is important to highlight the importance of voting and some ways you can make your voice heard this November.

Every Vote Counts

First and foremost, your vote matters. If you ever think that just one vote does not make a difference, consider the presidential election between Al Gore and George W. Bush in 2000. The election was so close that it came down to a recount in Florida, where Bush ultimately won by 537 votes (New York Times).

If you have recently become an American citizen, it is especially important that you vote this November. The individuals we vote into office shape the policies and laws that impact future Americans, especially immigrants. Immigration continues to be a hot button issue in the United States, and our current administration continues to make the path to citizenship a more challenging process. You or individuals you love may be directly affected by the inequities of the U.S. immigration system. Your vote can change the current trajectory for many to come.

How Can I Vote?

Visit Vote.gov to learn how to register to vote in your state. Nearly every state requires its citizens to register if they want to become voters. Depending on your state, the registration deadline could be as much as a month before an election. In Georgia, you must register by October 5, 2020.

Georgia allows absentee voting by mail and in-person. Voters should complete an absentee ballot application and return it to their county registration office. You may also vote in-person during early voting periods or on the day of the election. The presidential election is Tuesday, November 3, 2020. Click here for key dates, voter status, early voting details, and more in Georgia.

If you are voting in person in Georgia (including voting early), you must present one of the following forms of ID:

• Georgia driver’s license
• Georgia voter ID or other ID card issued by the State of Georgia, any other state, or the US government
• Employee photo ID issued by the US government, Georgia government, or any county, municipality, board, authority, or other Georgia government entity
• Valid US passport
• Valid US military photo ID
• Student photo ID card issued by a Georgia public college, university, or technical school
• Valid tribal photo ID

How Can I Make My Voice Heard?

If you are not yet 18 or are not a U.S. citizen, you can still participate in the election process. You may not be able to walk into a voting booth to place your vote for the next President of the United States, but there are things you can do:

· Get out and talk to people. Even if you cannot vote, you can still voice opinions on social media, in your school or local civic clubs, and other public forums.

· If you support a candidate, you can work with their campaign to increase their odds of being elected, even if you are not able to vote yourself.

No matter what you believe or whom you support, it is important to exercise your rights in this upcoming election. If you have immigration-related questions or general voting questions, please contact LaGrone Law at 678-250-5449.