It’s that time of the year again, election season, and this election is particularly prominent as it is a presidential election year. Many of us here at Mayo have never voted before; however, some of us are eligible this year. Those born before November 9th, 1998, should get registered and head to the polls and vote.

Registering to vote is extremely easy, but there are some requirements that need to be met. Besides being at least 18 on or before Election Day (November 8th), you must be a U.S. citizen, must have been a resident of Minnesota since at least October 19, must not currently be judged incompetent, and cannot be serving a felony conviction or be on probation. If you meet these requirements registering should be simple.

There are three ways to register: online, mail-in, or in person. Online and mail-in are considered pre-registration and concluded on October 18th. When voting in person, registration can be done at the polling location on Election Day or by October 18 at your local county election office or at the Minnesota Secretary of State office, but you must bring proof of residence like a driver’s license. It is important that you go to the correct voting location, or you will be turned away.

To register you must have a Minnesota issued driver’s license, a Minnesota issued ID card, or the last four digits of your social security number. After you have registered you can check your polling location and registration status at https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/VoterStatus.aspx.

Again, it is important to remember that since many Spartans live in different polling areas within and beyond the city limits, the link at this website will help you see where you will vote. Just follow the procedure that prompts you to see if you are a registered voter (even if you already know that you are).

Registering to vote is a simple task that allows you to be a part of the democracy and freedom the United States allows. If you are eligible, make use of your right to vote and go out to the polls November 8!