41 Haven seniors will be able to vote in the 2024 election on Tuesday, November 5. They will have the ability to represent Strath Haven at the voting polls and take part in sustaining democracy. However, there are some things everyone should expect at the polls, whether it is this election or one a few years from now.
Arriving at the polls
The polls will open at 7 am and close at 8 pm. Depending on when you arrive, the waiting times will vary. Outside of the polls, it’s possible to see canvassers trying to persuade voters. The best option is to be kind, either asking for more information or politely declining.
Your polling location will depend on where your house is located. For example, if you live in Rutledge, the location will be at the Borough offices. Then, the poll workers will ask what street you live on, your name, ID, and your signature.
To vote you need to be registered in the state of Pennsylvania. The deadline for online voter registration was October 21. However, because of seniors Luci DiBonaventura, Ella DiBonaventura, Greg Guron, Lucy Hewitt, Emily Reilly, Olivia Heisey-Terrell, and Mrs. Harvey, none of the qualifying seniors will have to worry about this problem.
Casting your votes
Once the poll workers have directed you towards a voting booth, you’ll be faced with a machine or a paper ballot that will take your candidates.
In this election, there are eight positions: President, Senator, Senator in the General Assembly for District Nine, Congressperson in the 5th district, Congressperson in the 161th district, Auditor General, State Treasurer, and Attorney General. In some years there will be multiple of one position to vote for.
Voters can vote across parties and can vote for a party they are not registered with. The voting itself can be a quick process if you’re aware of candidates beforehand or plan to vote for one party. There is no right or wrong answer to voting; it is expressing your opinion to the best of your abilities.
Don’t be scared! “One of the most important rights of American citizens is the franchise—the right to vote.” Voting is not a decision to be taken lightly and can affect your community, state, and your country.
“This is our future at the end of the day,” senior and poll worker Molly Conallen said. “No one can tell you who to vote for or against because it is your choice. This is the first thing of adulthood we get to decide, so choose wisely and impact our future.”
