With the 2014 midterm elections fast approaching, students and citizens alike are encouraged to pay attention to the upcoming political activities scheduled to take place.
From the federal level to local elections, various seats will be available for new politicians to hold.
However, when it comes to midterm elections, many don’t take the opportunity to vote, said Vonda Robertson, deputy election clerk of the Obion County Election Commission office.
“Unfortunately, these elections are a little less in numbers,” Robertson said.
As one might expect, midterm elections are typically not as emphasized as presidential-year elections. However, they are of considerable value to governance. The decisions of the years 2012 and 2013 can offer some degree of guidance in terms of the effectiveness of the officials citizens recently elected. Those who choose to practice their right to vote can find many sources of information online to formulate their desired voting decisions. While some posts are unreliable or contain biased statistics, other sources present up-to-date and valid information for public awareness.
“A little research can go a long way for voters,” Robertson said.
Complaints of younger voters exhibiting apathetic behavior toward the past two midterm elections have been expressed by multiple representatives, candidates and media networks. Some of this, however, is caused by demanding schedules or lack of information concerning the elections. Sometimes, students or others simply don’t know where or even how to vote.
Obviously, Tennessee residents must be registered to vote well in advance of the first round of elections in May. If not already registered, the process can be completed online or at the nearest County Election Commission office in person. Also, many public libraries have the ability to register voters.
“If you are updating your (driver’s) license, they can also register you there,” Robertson said.
Most, if not all, County Election Commission offices are located in the county seats. For example, in Weakley County, Dresden is the location and the county seat. Polls can be found in several areas, depending on the size and population of the county. The voter’s physical address determines the polling place and in which elections the resident can vote. Election Commission offices also can provide that information.
“The 2014 county primary elections will occur on May 6, while the state primary and county general elections will occur on Aug. 7,” Robertson said.
The state and federal general elections will occur on Nov. 4.
