Speak Up: 2008 Election Information

This week, as October winds down and an historic Election Day nears, I want to take a moment to encourage everyone to remember to vote in one of the most important presidential elections of, well, the history of the United States.

If you’re an undecided voter, take this last week to educate yourself on the platforms of each candidate; because I believe the best information comes directly from a source in question, head to http://www.barackobama.com/ to read Sen. Barack Obama’s comprehensive “Blueprint for Change” and http://www.johnmccain.com/ to read Sen. John McCain’s piece-by-piece plans for national and international issues. For quicker profiles of each candidate and running mates (Sen. Joseph Biden and Gov. Sarah Palin), I recommend the New York Times’ Election Guide 2008, available online at http://elections.nytimes.com/2008/index.html. There, you can find bios, the candidates’ schedules and campaign finances, and comparisons between candidates’ stances on major issues such as healthcare and the economy.

For local information on voting, voter registration, first-time voter and district information, polling places, sample ballots and more candidate profiles (including those running for Nebraska offices), visit the Douglas County Election Commission at http://www.votedouglascounty.com/. Statewide general election polls will be open Nov. 4 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; early voters may vote at the Douglas County Election Commission, 225 N. 115th St., by 5 p.m. Nov. 3. Keep in mind voters are not allowed to wear campaign-support materials, such as T-shirts, hats, buttons, etc., within 200 feet of a polling place; leave them in the car or cover them up before entering.

Lincoln residents can find their voter information at http://lancaster.ne.gov/cnty/election/index.htm. Campaign apparel restrictions and polling hours are the same in Lincoln as in Omaha.

Though the voter registration deadlines for this year’s election have passed, don’t let that stop you from registering for future elections. As citizens of the United States, you have the right to let your voice be heard, so speak up. I don’t think I’m alone when I say now is the time for it.