Voting on Election Day: UNC-Chapel Hill Guide
As a Tar Heel, you have a voice in shaping the future of our community, state, and nation. Election Day is a crucial opportunity to exercise your civic duty and make your vote count. To help you navigate the voting process on campus, this guide provides essential information for UNC-Chapel Hill students.
Understanding Your Voting Rights
1. Register to Vote:
- If you're not already registered, you can register online through the North Carolina State Board of Elections website.
- The deadline to register to vote in North Carolina is 25 days before the election.
2. Know Your Precinct:
- Find your assigned precinct using the North Carolina State Board of Elections website or the "Find My Polling Place" tool on the website of your county Board of Elections.
3. Voting ID Requirements:
- In North Carolina, you must present a photo ID at the polls. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- North Carolina Driver's License
- North Carolina Non-Operator ID
- U.S. Passport
- Military ID
- Tribal ID
- Student ID (with photo)
4. Early Voting:
- Early voting is available in North Carolina, and it offers you the flexibility to vote before Election Day.
- Visit your county Board of Elections website to find early voting locations and dates.
Voting on Election Day at UNC-Chapel Hill
1. Polling Place Information:
- The UNC-Chapel Hill campus is divided into multiple precincts, so check your assigned precinct information using the resources mentioned above.
- For students living in on-campus housing, polling locations may be designated within residence halls or nearby buildings.
2. Hours of Operation:
- Polls are open on Election Day from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
3. Accessibility:
- Polls are required to be accessible to voters with disabilities. Contact your county Board of Elections if you have any accessibility needs.
4. Voter Assistance:
- If you have questions or need assistance at the polls, poll workers are available to help.
Staying Informed and Engaged
1. Election Resources:
- The UNC-Chapel Hill Center for Voter Engagement offers resources and information on voting, including voter registration assistance and election-related events.
- The North Carolina State Board of Elections website provides comprehensive information about elections, voting procedures, and candidate information.
2. Candidate Information:
- Research candidates and their platforms to make informed decisions about who to vote for.
- Utilize resources like the League of Women Voters, Vote Smart, or Ballotpedia for candidate information and voter guides.
3. Election Day Logistics:
- Plan your travel time to the polls, considering potential traffic or lines.
- Consider carpooling or using public transportation to reduce congestion and parking challenges.
- Be aware of any campus events or closures that may affect your travel plans.
Voting is a fundamental right and a responsibility of all citizens. By understanding your options and engaging in the process, you can contribute to shaping the future of our community and nation. Let's make our voices heard on Election Day!