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Andrew Pallotta: On Election Day, Make Your Voice Heard!

Tuesday, November 3rd is Election Day. Do you have a plan to vote?

Too many people buy into the narrative that voting in New York State doesn’t matter since “we’re a blue state.” But the 2020 presidential race isn’t the only one on the ballot. Plenty of important congressional and state legislative races need your vote.

This is one of the most important elections in U.S. history. The results will determine the future of our democracy, the values governing our nation and our country’s standing in the world.

And this fall, one of the most important things you can do to protect, defend and fight for those things, and for public education, is to vote.

But like everything else these days, voting is a little different this year.

The good news is, you now have more options than ever.

You have three options: you can vote by mail; you can vote in person during early voting; or you can go to your polling place on election day.

Your job is to know the facts about each option and "make a plan to vote."

And tell your friends to make a plan, too.

The fact is, people who make a plan to vote are significantly more likely to do it.

So, what is your plan to vote?

If you are voting by mail, it is simple and safe.

You can also vote in person before Election Day.

It’s easy. All you have to do is call your county board of elections, or look on their website, to find out where your early voting location is and what time it’s open.

Then, go to your polling location between October 24th and Nov. 1st and cast your ballot.

Or you can always go the traditional route — voting in person on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3rd. That’s how I plan to vote.

If you’re like me, and intend to vote in person on Election Day, you still need to make a plan. It’s more important than ever in this age of social distancing. Are you going before work? After work? In the early evening? Make sure you have your mask and plan for lines.

Voting on Election Day, Tuesday Nov. 3rd, is a great way to exercise your civic duty and make sure your voice is heard. If you have kids, discuss the voting process with them. Understanding how voting works is an important learning experience. If you’ve got some free time, consider becoming a poll worker. You’ll earn some pay and help keep our election process strong.

But no matter what your plan is, or how you vote, cast your ballot.

Voting is your right. On Election Day, make yourself heard.

Andy Pallotta, a former elementary teacher, is president of the more than 600,000-member New York State United Teachers.

The views expressed by commentators are solely those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the views of this station or its management.

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