Planning a route… to vote!

We know, you’re hearing it from everyone. But it’s important, so we’re saying it, too: the election is one week away and your vote counts. Tuesday, November 3rd, 2020, will be here before you know it!

Check out “I Bike, I Vote” gear in our shop!

Voting can be like making sure you get that work out in: sometimes (my) best intentions don’t result in getting off the couch (it’s true, I am speaking from personal experience here). Having a plan and making the time to take action can be the difference between participating in democracy or being a bystander.

Research shows that the most important things you can do ahead of time is plan out where and when you are going to vote. This year, you might have more options on methods to record your vote than in previous years. And many of you might already have voted–share that enthusiasm for voting with your friends and family by encouraging them to make a plan to vote!

Just like you might plan a ride, now is the time to make a plan to vote: find your polling place, check your local absentee options, schedule a time on Tuesday, November 3, into your calendar, and make sure that logistics don’t stop your ballot from counting.

So please take a minute to ask and answer for yourself:

If you are voting in person (whether early or on November 3rd): 

Where is my polling place? What hours will it be open?

If you are not sure, you can find that information through the National Association of Secretaries of State, the state-level officials who oversee voting. The link will eventually direct you to your state’s site for determining your voting location. 

How will I get there?

The League encourages bicycling! If you bike to vote, please Tweet a picture and tag us @BikeLeague or use #IBikeIVote or #BikeThere. 

What time am I going to vote?

Think through your schedule for Tuesday, November 3 (or whichever day you will be voting), and set aside time on your calendar.

What do I need to bring?

Some states require you to bring an ID to vote. See what your state requires on voting day via Vote.org. 

What is on my ballot?

• In addition to the presidential election, every seat in the House of Representatives is on the ballot. Plus, you may see local measures, as well. Learn what will be on yur ballot from The League of Women Voters’ vote411.org and ballotpedia.org
• You can print out your ballot and bring it with you.

Taking a few minutes early on can make a big difference when life gets busy!

If you are voting by mail:

How do I get a mail-in ballot?

You can request a mail-in ballot directly from your state department of elections or use an online tool from non-profit groups such as Vote.org or the U.S. Vote Foundation. 

Please do so soon! In many states, time is running out.

When do I need to put it in the mail?

Please make sure to mail your ballot early so that it is received in time to count!

Every state has its own deadlines, so be sure to learn and doublecheck your state’s deadlines. The U.S Vote Foundation is one place to start.

I think it might be too late to mail my ballot, are there other options?

Many states have drop boxes where you can return your ballot instead of putting it in the mail. 

In some states you can hand it in at polling places, or other official locations. Check here to see official locations by state.

Now that you have a plan to vote, be sure to let other people know, “I Bike, I Vote” and show off that sentiment with gear from our shop.