August 9, 2018 (Orlando) – It’s Time to Vote! Yes, this is Primary Election season and voters around the country have the chance to select the people they want to represent them, especially locally and statewide. 

Florida voters will have their turn at the polls on Tuesday, August 28. Common voting hours: 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Now, you can always vote early either by absentee ballot (vote by mail ballot) or at Early Voting Centers. In Orange County, Early Voting Centers will be open August 17 – August 26 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.                   

Florida is a closed primary state, meaning voters will choose from candidates within their parties or if they have not selected a primary, they will vote on candidates in universal primary races and/or non-partisan races (such as Judges and County Mayor) , along with local initiatives. (An universal primary race occurs when candidates in a race have the same political party.) 

Can’t express it enough how important it is to vote in every election. Many people tend to skip Primary Elections – either they forget because it’s in August or they just don’t think it matters. But it does. This is actually prime time! Who we select to represent us is critical, i.e. Mayors appoint Police Chiefs and those Police Chiefs are responsible for every law enforcement officer on their squad. Also, if you see an issue in your neighborhood, you don’t call the President of the United States or your U.S. Senator or Representative. No, you call your city or county representatives for help. 

However you like to vote – by absentee ballot, at an early voting location or at your polling place – just remember to do it. Your vote can make a difference. Good idea to remind your family and friends to vote also!

Voting early may be best because of last-minute mishaps or bad weather on Election Day.  (Florida residents, you know the drill: It’s summertime.)

There have already been reports of several precincts in cities in Michigan running out of ballots on Election Day. Given the political climate throughout our country, the thought of running out of ballots seems unbelievable. Clerks were making copies of ballots and/or having people wait for ballots from nearby precincts. There’s enough blame to spread around there but if anything like that happens to you on Election Day, do not leave the line until you have voted. You have the right to vote.

Call your county elections office if you have any questions or concerns. Orange County: (407) 836-2070. For list of Early Voting Centers go to the elections office website: http://www.ocfelections.com. 

© Orlando Community News, 2018