Poll closures due to the pandemic combined with fears that the USPS may not be able to keep up with mail-in ballot demands has many Americans wondering how to ensure their vote is counted this November. Fortunately, a new tool is here to help you navigate voting during this unprecedented election environment.
NBC News’ new interactive Plan Your Vote map answers key questions such as “Can I vote in person before Election Day?” and features a color-coded map to demonstrate where you can vote by mail no questions asked and where you need a reason to be approved for a mail-in ballot (like Texas and Louisiana).
The map also includes other helpful information like countdowns for days left to register to vote in your state, early voting policies, identification requirements, and even whether or not you have to notarize your ballot.
No matter what your political affiliation, voter turnout is a bipartisan crisis in the United States. In 2018, only 67 percent of eligible voters registered and only a little over half of the registered voters ended up casting their ballot. More widespread voter registration and turnout is a simple way to ensure the voices of all citizens are represented in choosing new leaders and laws.
If you’re unsure of your state’s voting laws approaching the election or are curious about how they differ from other areas of the country, check out the map here. Oh, and if you haven’t, register to vote today!
