Consider voting absentee in the November election
by CLIFF AND NANCY HILL
Pictured is Valley View Elementary student Allison Bedford, 9, holding an application for an absentee ballot. Allison tells us, “My mom thinks everyone should vote absentee!” The civic minded Allison is the daughter of Rockford City Clerk, Chris Bedford.
“We, the people” (the electorate) of the United States are so polarized by partisan politics and rhetoric that voter turnout in the General November 2012 Presidential election is expected to be huge.
In Rockford, both sides of a full ballot will decide elective offices that will offer up choices from the Presidency
of the United States right down to Rockford City Council. Topping it
all off, voters will be asked to consider six separate proposed amendments to the Michigan Constitution.
With all of this on our plates in the polling booth, is it any wonder on Election Day, Tuesday, November 6, that long lines will be evident at polling places across the country.
If your time is valuable and you are one who does not like to stand in line, even in an election of this magnitude, there is an easier alternative. Consider casting an absentee ballot.
One does not have to be a senior citizen to request an absentee ballot. A number of valid excuses allow any registered voter to receive and vote, at their leisure, an absentee ballot in the privacy of their own home.
Receiving an absentee ballot is a simple process. First off, either in person or on the phone, contact your local Clerk and request an application form for an absentee ballot. When received, check an appropriate box, sign your name and return it to your Clerk. Upon receipt, the Clerk will mail an absentee ballot to your home address.
How simple and easy! No standing in long lines, no need to fit election day into your hectic and busy life, no need to be late for work, and you can even have a cup of coffee while you ponder and exercise your civic duty.
Your reporters have voted via absentee ballot for many years. We wouldn’t have it any other way. Heck, in the not-to-distant future it’s envisioned that everyone will cast their votes electronically from anywhere they choose on Election Day.
For those of you who live in the City of Rockford, City Clerk Chris Bedford and the office staff at Rockford City Hall would be more than happy to service your request for an absentee ballot. Stop in any time in person, Monday through Friday during regular business hours or contact City Hall at 866-1537.
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