Make Your Choice Count

Well, five faithful readers, I will be off tomorrow participating in the Obama Campaign's "Counsel for Change" Voter Protection Program. Thousands of people around the country are volunteering their time to help combat vote suppression efforts..I've only met a few of them, but I'm proud of every one.

Now, obviously, I have a favorite. You may be able to tell...but whether Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Naderite, or whether you want to write in your Aunt Milly because you think she'd do a damn good job--you have a right to vote. It's a cliche to say that people died to give you that right--but dammit if it ain't true. So don't let anyone screw with your right to vote. A couple of tips....

They are expecting massive turnout. Get there as early as you can.

Be patient. The precinct workers are under a lot of pressure tomorrow, too. Ninety-nine percent of them want everything to go smoothly as well. Help them out.

Know your local rules before you go. Some states have ID requirements, some only require you to be on the rolls. It's best to bring some proof of registration or address just in case.

IF YOU HAVE TO FILL OUT A PROVISIONAL BALLOT YOUR VOTE WILL NOT BE COUNTED UNTIL YOU COME BACK WITH PROPER ID. (BUT YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE TO WAIT IN LINE AGAIN TO PROVIDE IT).

There may be people wandering the lines giving you instructions. Be wary of anyone telling you of voting requirements--often times members of certain parties will try and make up voting requirements that are non-existent and will succeed in tricking voters to get out of line. BE CAREFUL WHO YOU LISTEN TOO.

If you are in line at the time the polls close--YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO VOTE in most states. Don't get out of line just yet!! A cut off person will be designated by the election officals on site.

Also, again, there are monitors (like the good Dr.) who will be on hand to answer questions and help if there are verification problems. IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM, PLEASE DON'T BE SHY.

Have a great Election Day and maybe I'll see ya at Grant Park.

Peace.