iVOTE!
The 2008 U.S. presidential election WILL effect our future. Will your voice be heard?
The 2008 elections are fast approaching, Nov. 4th to be exact. If you are a U.S. Citizen 18 years old or older, consider the following questions: Are you ready to cast your vote? Have you registered? Requested your absentee ballot? What if you are going abroad? This site is your one stop source for all the information you need -- not only to vote, but to be an informed voter!
Why vote?
Issues and actions controled by the President of the United States affect all of us, our every day lives, our family, and our future. Not voting says, "I don't care what happens to me, my country, or the world." The candidates are talking about jobs and the economy, the cost of education, the war in Iraq and health care as well as the environment and global warming. From discussions in classrooms, dinning halls -- and the chapel basement -- we know that every Wheaton student has passionate feelings about at least one of those issues. If you are eligible to vote, take a stand and vote! If not -- educate yourself and join the conversation. This election will affect people around the world.
Alright, you got me, How do I register?
You may either register to vote in your home state or in the state where you attend college. Incoming students may register at the college sign-in during orientation this year. However, many states still have very early registration deadlines -- so don't put this off! Check your state deadline here TODAY.
All eligible students can go to their local town halls to register and request absentee ballots before coming to school in August, or register online at Rock the Vote. There will also be voter registration tables at many events this fall. Check the Rock the Vote web site for links to your state information.
Ok, so this is all great, but I'm going to be abroad or here in Norton and won't be able to get home to vote.
You can still vote! Remember, you may register to vote in Norton, but if you choose to vote in your home state, it is essential that you request your absentee ballot as soon as possible. Some deadlines are coming up before school starts. You can request your absentee ballot here.
Who are the candidates and where do they stand on issues that matter to me?
While the conventions will be held later this summer, both parties have chosen their "presumptive" nominees.
John McCain, Republican. Barack Obama, Democrat.
This is a great time to learn more about where you stand on important issues. Remember -- educate yourself on the issues, then vote your own conscience. Listen to what friends and family have to say, but voting is your choice. You have the power to help change the nation. Make your voice heard.
I've checked out the web sites, and I still have questions.
There will be opportunities to learn more about the issues at events on campus this fall. Keep your eyes on the Wire, the walls and the web for information on upcoming events. Or check out the events calendar in the chapel basement.
I really like this. Are there politically active student groups on campus?
Of Course! The Wheaton College Dems and the Wheaton College Conservatives will both be especially active on campus this fall. Look for these groups at voter registration tables and other events or contact the SSSR office to get connected.
Wait a minute. Not all Wheaton students are eligible to vote! I'm not a U.S. citizen.
You still have an opinion. Many scholars, politicians and activists are saying that this is one of the most important presidential elections in decades, and it will certainly affect U.S. relations around the world. Even if you aren't eligible to vote, educate yourself and join the conversation. We always benefit from learning about the ways our decisions impact each other, here at Wheaton and around the world.
Are there other resources on the web that will help me understand the candidates' positions?
Yes. Many national organizations have election web sites that compare the candidates from their own particular perspective. For example, if you are interested in women's issues, check out the League of Women Voters.