Politics & Government
Election Board: Check Voter Status Now
With several hot-button issues going to referendum, the Carroll County Elections Board encourages residents to make sure their voter registration is up to date.
Are you registered to vote? Have you moved recently? Has your name changed? Do you want to change your political party affiliation?
If any of these pertain to you, Gail Carter, election director at the Carroll County Board of Elections said now is the time to update your voter status.
Carter said with high profile issues such as same-sex marriage, gaming and the DREAM Act going to referendum, more people are expected to turn out to vote in November.
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"We anticipate a large turnout and if the voter's information is updated that will make the process easier," Carter said.
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You can use Maryland's Online Voter Registration System (OLVR) to update your name and address or you can notify the local board of elections if your voter registration information has changed.
Who is Eligible to Vote?
According to the Maryland State Board of Elections website, you are elgible to vote in Maryland if you meet the following criteria:
- You are a U.S. citizen
- You are a Maryland resident, and
- You are at least 16 years old (you may register to vote if you are at least 16 years old but cannot vote unless you will be at least 18 years old by the next general election)
Changing Your Party Affiliation
To change your party affiliation you can use Maryland's Online Voter Registration System (OLVR) or submit a new voter registration application or a signed written request to your local board of elections.
The deadline to change your party affiliation for the Presidential General Election is Oct. 16. If you request a change in party affiliation after this date, your request will be held at your local board of elections and processed when registration reopens after the general election.
The following parties are recognized in Maryland: Republican Party, Democratic Party, and the Americans Elect Party.
Want more information? Visit the www.elections.state.md.us.
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