As the election approaches, students and staff prepare to cast their ballots before the deadline.
The 60th quadrennial presidential election on Nov. 5 will determine the identity of the 47th President of the United States and the passing of ten key propositions statewide. Additional local propositions, such as Measure CC, are also up for vote in Riverside County, with various cities and counties holding separate elections.
For many students at CBU, this will be their first time voting. Individuals who meet the requirements of being over 18 and a United States citizen can verify their registration status through the local Registrar of Voters. Registering in advance is mandatory to vote; the last day to register was Oct. 21.
Miranda Eddins, senior architecture major, expressed her excitement about participating in the upcoming election.
“I’m excited because it’s the first time I get to cast my vote,” Eddins said.
Those who aren’t registered or who registered in a different state can still vote but must visit a polling location or county registrar to receive a provisional ballot. Voters from outside California should check their state’s deadlines and requirements, as these can vary.
Maui local May Molina, senior engineering major, took additional steps to secure her ballot.
“I filled out an absentee form to get my ballot sent to me in California…” Molina said.
Mail-in ballots began distribution to all registered voters on Oct. 7. These must be postmarked on or before election day. Voters using mail-in ballots can also utilize nearby drop boxes or drop them off at the polls.
Don Wager, chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, shared his views on the responsibility of citizens and the importance of voting.
“Our entire system of government is based on the idea that power ultimately resides with the people, and the consent of the governed to use that power is what makes government legitimate…I believe that everyone who votes does so responsibly. They are, with each vote, exercising a great power – the ultimate government power, actually…” Wager stated.
Polls will be open on Nov. 5 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Citizens can look forward to participating in the democratic process and fulfilling their civic duty.
