Happy National Voter Registration Day!  

The deadline to register to vote for the upcoming Nov. 5 election is Oct. 7, 2019 

Full of towering figures like Barbara Jordan and Laura Bush, MLS ’73, Texas politics have always sparked interest across the country—but not with voters. Based on turnout from the 2016 election, Texas ranks 47 in voter turnout among the 50 states and the District of Columbia, with 55 percent of citizens voting in the general election. A little more than half of individuals registered to vote in Texas made political decisions for the entire state. By participating in elections—by voting, donating, or volunteering— citizens become more active in making their government work best for them.  

In order to vote, Texans must first register. In voter registration, Texas ranks 44th out of the 50 states and the District of Columbia, with only 68 percent of all eligible citizens registered to vote. Applications to vote can be found online on the Texas Secretary of State’s page, or in-person at your county Voter Registrar’s office. To correctly register, an application must be received in the Voter Registrar’s office, or postmarked at least 30 days before an election to be eligible to vote in the election. Remember—if you move, even if only down the street, your voter registration needs to be updated!  

To confirm your voter registration, check it here. 

By voting, individuals directly influence who makes the decisions that affect their everyday lives. Elected officials influence policies ranging from building new roads to funding public schools. By exercising political engagement, voters empower themselves to positively influence their entire community. According to the National Conference on Citizenship’s Civic Health Index, communities with strong civic health, “have higher employment rates, stronger schools, better physical health, and more responsive governments.” Participating at the ballot box shows that constituents care about how their home is represented locally, at the state legislature, and in Washington, D.C.  

Another way to participate is by donating money to worthy candidates. In Texas, donating money is the most common form of civic involvement, with 46 percent of Texans reporting they give at least $25 annually to a charitable organization. This rate is lower than most other states, ranking Texas 40th.1 By helping to advance candidates that align with personal interest, individuals become increasingly connected and interested in the government.  

When thinking about the upcoming exciting election season, remember to not only check your voter registration, but to talk with your coworkers, neighbors, and friends about how voting ensures that their voice is heard and taken seriously. If you believe that a candidate will represent you and your community to the best of their ability, remember that your donation could bring a candidate one step closer to taking office.  

Your vote is the best way to directly impact who represents you!  

For any questions about how to register to vote or to find your voting location, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Texas Exes Advocacy Department.