Tomorrow’s election may be the most important and meaningful election in U.S. history. It will be a defining moment for the country in terms of who we are as a society and where we’re going in the decades ahead. Right now I’m very concerned that we make our votes count. Each state has their own set of rules, criteria, and style about doing things. I’ve reviewed some of the “far-out” set ups including the shenanigans designed to trip up first-time or even seasoned voters. Don’t take any chances and don’t back down.

Here are some suggestions which I think can translate across the board for casting your vote on election day (November 4).
MOST IMPORTANT: Do whatever is necessary within the law to cast your vote before you leave the poll.
1. Bring two forms of id (a state issued i.d., voter card, and/or utility bill)
2. Bring all the comforts you need to amuse yourself in a long line: a book, your i-pod, snacks, water, maybe even a small folding chair. For food, bring enough to share 🙂 The wait may be 90 minutes or more.
3. Make it plain fashion wise: hold the campaign attire for the election night parties and gatherings when you leave the poll. If you just can’t help yourself, bring a windbreaker to cover up and a bag or tote to store your hat, buttons, etc.. The most important statement you make November 4th is your vote.
4. Ignore voter deceptions and distractions i.e. flyers, signs, and notices that say you cannot vote if you haven’t paid your mortgage, credit card debt, traffic tickets, etc. That’s all BS.
5. Review your ballot carefully before you vote. You want to make sure you completely understand the instructions. Ask questions if necessary. Ask for a sample ballot to review.
6. If you have a problem with a voting machine or ballot, REPORT IT IMMEDIATELY to the poll worker. If they cannot or will not resolve it, REPORT IT IMMEDIATELY by calling 1-866-687-8683 or 1-866-MYVOTE. This hotline is managed by Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. For Spanish speaking voters, call 1-888-839-8682 or 1-888-Ve-Y-Vota (administered by the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials Education Fund). Remember: If it happened to Oprah, it can happen to you!

VIDEO TAPE YOUR VOTE
Video the Vote http://www.videothevote.org/ – a national initiative to protect voting rights by organizing citizen journalists to monitor the electoral process.
Review the guidelines for Video the Vote on how to collect and submit your videos. In some states you cannot photograph or videotape inside the polling place. But it’s not a bad idea to bring a camera, video camera or audio recorder to collect documentation in case you need to report a problem.

This election will be a test of our endurance and commitment. Eternal vigilance….