The coronavirus has changed almost every aspect of everyday life. The voting system is not an exception. During this year with the primaries and the upcoming presidential elections, voting is more important than ever (although voting no matter how small is always important). All across the nation, states are adapting their voting systems in order to preserve our democracy during a global pandemic. One way that states are making it easier for citizens to vote is through absentee voting by mail this year due to the coronavirus. Every state’s election rules are different, and each state has its own rules for mail-in absentee voting. Many are still in the process of deciding how they will handle voting during the pandemic. Absentee voting (aka “mail-in voting” and “by-mail voting”) is conducted by mail-in ballot before the day of Election Day. All states will mail a ballot to voters if certain conditions are met. The voter may return the ballot in person or by mail. Some states will let voters apply for an absentee ballot in person before Election Day and then vote the ballot that same day. Besides the logistics of voting, the coronavirus has also affected why people are casting their vote. With rising activism and a want to change the people in power, more and more people are finding themselves casting a ballot. Online sources such as Vote.org and Rock the Vote have seen an increase in viewers on their websites. These websites are excellent sources for young people to view their registration status, educate themselves on upcoming elections, and share the information with friends and peers. Please make sure to check your state's guidelines to voting during this pandemic and make sure to cast your ballot.
For young voters in California here are some more sources for voting:
Great information!