Cast Your Ballot for the August Partisan Primary and the 2024 Presidential Election!

According to newly released voting and registration data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the 2020 presidential election saw the highest voter participation rates of the 21st century, with 66.8% of eligible citizens casting their ballots. The voter turnout for older adults aged 65 to 74 was at 76%, which is an outstanding turnout compared the 51.4% voting rate among those aged 18 to 24. Generally, as age increased, so did voter participation. This trend is a positive sign of growing civic engagement and informed decision-making among our country’s population. It is also a testament to the wisdom and dedication of older adults, whose active involvement in the democratic process strengthens our society. What is learned time and time again is that every vote counts. Not to mention that once again, issues that could significantly impact seniors are under debate.

“A vote is the best way of getting the kind of country and the kind of world you want” President Harry Truman

But why should you vote?

• Elections impact your everyday life and family: Voting shapes the allocation of resources for schools, road repairs, public transport expansion, healthcare access, job security, pay equity, crime prevention, and gun safety. It empowers you to elect officials who advocate for your priorities and influence your community's welfare.
• Decide where your tax dollars go: As taxpayers, we all deserve a voice in how our money is spent. Voting for city council members, county commissioners, governors, state legislators, and federal representatives—from Congress to the President—determines how tax dollars are allocated, who leads our communities, and which projects receive funding at every level of government.
• Protect our voting rights: Several states are implementing stricter voting laws that limit early voting, mail-in voting, access to language assistance, and voter registration processes. Your vote is your voice, but it must be exercised to remain so.

MyVote Wisconsin is a tremendous online resource that allows you to check your voter registration status, register at a new address, view a sample ballot, and request an absentee ballot. If you haven’t checked your registration, requested your absentee ballot, or planned to safely vote in person, this is your reminder to do so!

Most are aware of the Presidential race on the ballot on November 5th, but there is also a Partisan Primary election on August 13th. On the ballot will be US Senator, US Representative, WI Assembly, WI Senate (some districts), District Attorney, County Clerk, County Treasurer, Register of Deeds, and two questions to amend the Wisconsin Constitution.

For more detailed information on voting logistics, see the following article from the League of Women Voters of Dane County: www.lwvdanecounty.org/voting-information.

5 Reminders for the Presidential Election on November 5th:

1. October 14th is the last day to register online or by mail
2. In-person registration (and early voting) is available through October 30th at your municipal clerk’s office or on Election Day. Remember to bring proof of residence and an approved photo ID!
3. Seniors who are unable to get to the polls can request an absentee ballot oline without an approved photo ID by checking “Indefinitely confined.”
4. Request your absentee ballot as soon as possible.

5. Send your absentee ballot back at least one week prior to Election Day (November 3rd).