Endless candidate signs will soon begin to line lawns, commercials will be filled with accusations, and conversations are becoming filled with politics. These all lead to one thing: election season. But how do you register to vote? How do you know who to vote for?
With high school seniors beginning to turn 18 and local elections drawing near, Stephanie Rocky can answer all of the young voters’ burning questions. Rocky is the elected Clerk of Courts and Election Administrator for Washington County and said that she takes both roles very seriously and “always upholds the highest level of integrity.”
“If they have a valid Indiana I.D., they can go to indiana voters.com to register or update their existing voter registration file,” Rocky explained.
Anyone who would like to register to vote can also go to their local BMV or voter registration office to complete their registration.
The process of registering to vote is simple according to Rocky, who explained that you provide your identifying information including: name, address, date of birth, and DL number or last four digits of your social security number.
To stay informed about candidates and issues, Rocky suggests looking at social media for legitimate candidate postings, reading the local newspaper, and checking out candidate websites.
“It is important to pay attention to candidates and use voting to decide who should be in office,” said Senior Amelia Mather, who is looking forward to voting.
“I would tell young voters to educate themselves on the candidates. Do the research and make an educated vote,” said Rocky. “Voters should ask themselves ‘What are the candidates’ stances on subjects that are important to me?’ and ‘What is their background?’”
Voters should also use forums as an opportunity to meet local candidates in person and understand their values better.
Rocky reminded college students that when colleges host Register to Vote days, “young voters at college need to make sure they are aware that if they register to vote at their college they will be registering to vote in the county their college is located in.” When students do this, that means they cannot vote in the election of their hometown.
“I think voting is important because it gives everyone an opportunity to voice their opinions and know that they matter,” senior Nora Humphrey said.
Rocky added, “It is important to vote to exercise your rights and make your voice heard. Individuals of our great nation have fought long and hard to earn the right to vote.”
For more information about voting or the Washington County Clerk, go to https://www.washingtoncounty.in.gov/government/laws_courts_and_justice/court_clerk.php.