Print
Category: Local News Releases Local News Releases
Published: 23 September 2016 23 September 2016

Tuesday, September 27, 2016, has been designated National Voter Registration Day. Supported by a wide range of civic organizations, corporations, and individuals, National Voter Registration Day is a drive to ensure that everyone who is eligible to vote gets registered in time to vote in the 2016 election. Their website states, "In 2008, 6 million Americans didn't vote because they missed a registration deadline or didn't know how to register. In 2016, we want to make sure no one is left out."

"The Grant County Democratic Party is dedicated year-round to helping everyone register to vote - the most important civic task for all of us," stated GCDP Chair Frances Vasquez. "But September 27 is an important reminder for all who haven't registered. The registration deadline for this election is October 11, so now is absolutely the time to do it." Vasquez noted that those who need to sign up can go to the Democratic campaign office at the College Street Plaza, 301 W. College Ave., Suite #6, in Silver City, or to the Grant County Administration Building on Highway 180 East.

In addition, the WNMU Miller Library and the Association of Students at WNMU are sponsoring a Voter Registration Day drive on September 27, with a kickoff featuring coffee, snacks, and games, 12:30pm to 1:30pm. The library will have personnel who can help anyone register, either online or on paper, from now until the October 11 deadline.

"This year the state of New Mexico has established a system for online registration, " said Vasquez. Those who have a New Mexico driver's license or state ID, plus a Social Security Number, can use that system. (Go to the NM Secretary of State website, at https://portal.sos.state.nm.us/OVR/WebPages/InstructionsStep1.aspx). Voters can also check on their registration status at that site. Otherwise the old paper form can be used. "It's quick and easy to register either way," Ms. Vasquez noted. She also advised that folks whose residence has changed since previously registering need to update their address through the same registration process so that they can vote for the candidates in their new location.

"Of course we'd like everyone to register as a Democrat, so you can participate in future Democratic primaries. But the most important thing is to get yourself registered before October 11 so you can exercise your constitutional right in the upcoming election." Early/absentee voting begins on October 11 at the Grant County Admin. Building, and Election Day is November 8. "Our democracy doesn't work if all the people don't participate. Su voto es su voz," Vasquez declared.

For more information, contact the Grant County Democratic Party at 654-6060 or email grantcountydemocrats@gmail.com.