Voting can seem like a daunting process, especially for a college student! We often have to deal with the challenges of moving to a new residence, registering to vote, finding a new polling location, and figuring out the ropes as this may be the first election many of us will be able to participate in.
Here at Voting 411, our club hopes to provide answers to the questions that many UCLA students specifically face. If you have any further questions, check out the State Secretary’s website at http://www.ss.ca.gov/elections/elections.htm or email bruindem@ucla.edu.
Q: How do I register to vote?
A: You can find a registration card at the many voter registration events that will take place on campus this year. Additionally, you can download a copy of the registration form online at http://www.ss.ca.gov/elections/english.pdf. Please read the instructions carefully!
Q: When is the last day to register to vote?
A: California requires voters to register 15 days prior to the election. That means the last day to register for the November 2 election is on October 18.
Q: I’m registered to vote at home, do I need to reregister?
A: Ultimately, this is up to you. You can be registered at home; but in order to vote you will have to go to your home polling place to vote or submit an absentee ballot. If you want to vote in Westwood, you must reregister to change your current school address. This will also allow you to vote on local matters.
Q: How do I request an absentee ballot?
A: You can request an absentee ballot filling out the application on the back of your sample ballot. If you have not received a sample ballot yet, you can find the application here: http://www.ss.ca.gov/elections/Outreach/absentee/links/GE_countyform_ballotapp2004.pdf
Q: When do I need to request my absentee ballot by?
A: You may request a ballot for the November 2 election anytime from October 4- October 26. We suggest that if you request your absentee ballot early, as UCLA mail can be very slow at times.
Q: What district is UCLA in?
A: UCLA is part of Congressional District 30, California Senate District 23, California Assembly District 47.
Q: Where do I vote?
A: Your polling location will be on the back of your sample ballot. Or, you can go to http://lavote.net/locator/ to find your polling location. We will also be putting up a map of polling locations around Westwood shortly.
Q: What do I need to bring to vote?
A: Bring a photo ID and your sample ballot.
Q: Are there propositions on the ballot?
A: There are 16 propositions on the ballot. The State Secretary’s website provides a summary and list of pros and cons of each proposition at: http://www.ss.ca.gov/elections/bp_nov04/quick_reference_pullout_guide.pdf
