October 28, 2008

From the desk of Rep. Allen Vaught

Voting: Easy. Convenient. Critical.

Your opportunity to cast your vote has arrived! Election Day is Tuesday, November 4th.

A record turnout is predicted for this year's election. If you haven't already voted, check out this guide for what you need to know to make your voice heard.

ELECTION DAYElection Day voting lasts from 7am - 7pm. You must vote in your precinct on election day. To locate your voting precinct or view a sample ballot, use the Dallas County Elections site: http://www.dalcoelections.org/voters.asp

WHAT TO TAKE TO VOTE
When headed to the polls, remember to take either your driver's license or your “light orange” Voter Registration Certificate. You should have received this certificate in the mail in late 2007.

If you do not have either one of these, you may use another official form of identification such as a photo ID, passport, birth certificate, or citizenship papers. Know that when voting without a Voter Registration Certificate or appropriate ID, you may have to sign an affidavit or fill out a provisional ballot.

You are permitted to take a sample ballot or other written material into the voting booth to assist you while voting. Please contact the Dallas County Elections Department by telephone at (214) 819-6300 if you have further questions.

SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS
If you have difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time, the election official will bring your ballot to your car. State and federal laws require that every voting location be accessible to voters with disabilities.

GENERAL INFORMATION
The Texas Secretary of State’s office serves as the clearing house for information on voting. For more information, visit their site at http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter/index.shtml. As you review the information above, remember our democracy rests upon the act of voting. Your vote counts. As always, please feel free to contact my office at (214) 370-8305 with any questions regarding voting or other state issues. I look forward to hearing from you.