PULASKI COUNTY, Ark. -- Election Day 2020 is quickly approaching. In fact, many Arkansans have already cast their vote during early voting.
For first-time voters, the voting process can be confusing and intimidating. To help alleviate confusion and stress, Pulaski County Special School District wants to make sure our families know the steps to ensure their voices are heard this election season.
First, confirm you are registered to vote. You can visit voterview.org to check your registration and reach out to your county clerk if you have questions.
Next, find your voting location. Polling sites are also included at voterview.org. Early voting sites differ from Election Day locations and can be found by contacting your County Clerk.
In Arkansas, voters are asked to show a government issued ID, which includes one of the following: Arkansas drivers license, U.S. Passport, U.S. military ID card, concealed handgun carry license, college ID from accredited postsecondary education institution in Arkansas, Public assistance ID card if it shows a photograph. You may cast a provisional ballot if you are unable to provide identification.
Once you are inside the polling location, you will be asked for your name, address, and date of birth so the poll worker can look up your voter record. Then they will ask for your ID to confirm you are who you say you are and ask you to sign an electronic keypad. The election official will print a barcode on a ballot card and hand it to you. A different election worker will take you to a clean voting machine, show you how to insert your blank ballot card into the machine, which will read the barcode, and your electronic ballot will appear on the screen for you to vote, using a free stylus pen.
Many groups are recommending voters wear warm clothing because many voting locations require voters to wait in line outside. You may even bring a chair to sit in if the line is especially long.
And as a reminder, do not wear anything with political or candidate information to the polls.