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Voter Registration and Voting Process Information Information Quick-Guide …to help increase voter turnout in all elections.
This Quick-Guide is designed to assist Volunteers working the “Get Out The Vote” Information Booth as
they demonstrate voting-related processes and respond to questions from the public. This guide will be
updated as lessons learned are developed and recommendations are provided.
Source: http://www.co.camden.ga.us/ and http://sos.ga.gov/
Document Contact: [email protected]
Camden
County
Georgia
Voter Registration and Voting Process Information 2014
Get out the Vote in Camden County, Georgia Page 1 of 31
Table of Contents General Information for our “Get Out The Vote” Volunteers ...............................................................2
Who are the non-voters? .......................................................................................................................... 3
Why People Don't Vote—in 1 Graph ........................................................................................................ 4
Who, When, Where, and How To Register To Vote? ............................................................................5
How to Check or Change Voter Registration Status? ............................................................................8
CHANGE OF RESIDENCE ............................................................................................................................ 8
How to Request an Absentee Ballot and How to Vote by Absentee Ballot ...........................................9
Request an Absentee Ballot ...................................................................................................................... 9
Registrar’s Office Processing of Absentee Ballot Request ...................................................................... 11
Filing Out and Submitting an Absentee Ballot ........................................................................................ 14
What is the Roll-over List? ...................................................................................................................... 15
Military and Overseas Voting .................................................................................................................. 16
Forms and Instructions ....................................................................................................................... 16
How Do I Use the Voting Machine? ................................................................................................... 17
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) .................................................................................................. 20
PRE-ELECTION ......................................................................................................................................... 20
VOTER REGISTRATION ............................................................................................................................. 21
VOTING.................................................................................................................................................... 25
PRIMARY ELECTIONS ............................................................................................................................... 29
AFTER THE ELECTION .............................................................................................................................. 30
POLL WORKERS ....................................................................................................................................... 31
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General Information for our “Get Out The Vote” Volunteers Across a number of mobilization experiments, one consistent finding is that more personalized
messages are more effective in mobilizing voters. The dynamic interaction of authentic person-to-
person contact is most important in successfully mobilizing voters.
THIS IS WHY WE ARE HERE TODAY.
Today, as people of all ages are enjoying their day, reach out and invite them in to share voter
registration and voting process information. Ask them if they are registered to vote, and are they
familiar with (1) Voter online services, (2) Voter Apps for smartphones, (3) Early Voting opportunities, (4)
Requesting an Absentee Ballot, and (5) Using the Voting Machine.
The information in this document is provided to augment you knowledge and experiences. Again,
sharing your personal experiences may be the most effective way to increase the number of registered
voters, and improve the participation of infrequent voters and registered voters that do not vote.
Part of your challenge is to “lure” voters and potential voters into the booth to check out the voting
machine, see how easy it is to register to vote on line, how they can vote by mail or to talk about voting
issues. Once they are inside, determine what their interest and needs are; if needed, refer to the Table
of Contents to quickly access augmenting information.
As a Volunteer, at the beginning of your shift, you will be familiarized with the internet connected
Laptop, IPod and online services so you can easily assist potential and interested voters. You will also be
familiarized with helping visitors use the TRAINING and DEMONSTRATION Voting Machine.
During your discussions with visitors to the booth:
Refer to separate handout for discussion topics.
X
X
X
How to record the success of the “Get out the Vote” Information Booth
The voting card reset tool will automatically tally the number of people who test the (TRAINING)
Voting Machine.
Volunteers are to make note of anyone registering to vote online. A record sheet will be next to
the Laptop Computer.
Volunteers are to make note of anyone seeking additional information regarding any of the
voting aspects. A record sheet will be provided.
Volunteers should make note of any comments or suggestions that might be useful in evaluating
the effectiveness of the endeavor. A record sheet will be provided.
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Additional Information
A general flyer is available that highlights voter information.
Business Cards for Heidi Butler (Camden County Deputy Registrar) are available for interested
people. Internet and contact information are provided on the Business Card.
Application forms for Voter Registration are available.
Absentee Ballot Request forms are available.
Sample Absentee ballots are available.
So,
Who are the non-votes, and
Why do so many qualified Americans fail to vote?
Let's ask them, and let’s see if we can help them become active voters.
Who are the non-voters? Nonvoters are disproportionately young, single, less educated and more likely to be of an ethnic
minority than infrequent and frequent voters.
40% of nonvoters are under 30 years old, compared to 29% of infrequent voters and 14% of
frequent voters.
Infrequent voters are much more likely to be married than nonvoters, with 50% of infrequent
voters married compared to only 34% of nonvoters.
76% of nonvoters have less than a college degree, compared to 61% of infrequent voters and
50% of frequent voters.
Among nonvoters, 54% are white or Caucasian compared to 60% of infrequent voters and 70%
of frequent voters.
Note: Family upbringing plays a strong role in determining voting habits as adults. 51% of nonvoters say
they grew up in families that did not often discuss political issues and candidates.
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Why People Don't Vote—in 1 Graph
DEREK THOMPSONNOV 5 2012, 2:14 PM ET
0 inShare
There are many reasons people don’t vote. Here are the most common:
Some interesting details from the last Census Report that came up with this data:
1. 27% of Asians said they didn't vote because they were busy, considerably higher than the
national average of 17.5%.
2. 15% of whites said they didn't vote because they didn't like the candidates, twice as high as any
other group.
3. Young people (ages 18-24), Asians, and bachelor's-degree holders were most likely to report
registration problems.
Voter Registration and Voting Process Information 2014
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Who, When, Where, and How To Register To Vote?
1. (WHO) You must be a US citizen and a leagal resident of Camden County, Georgia.
2. (WHEN) You can register when you are within six months of your 18th
birthday (i.e.17 ½)
3. (WHERE) You can register to vote in person, by mail, or online.
a. (IN PERSON) You can register at the following Government offices:
i. Registrars Office (Woodbine, Ga.)
ii. Department of Drivers Services (Kingsland, Ga.)
iii. Public library (St. Marys and Kingsland, Ga.)
iv. US Post Office (Various)
b. (BY MAIL) (An example form is provided in the next two pages. To facilitate the
processing of your application, print clearly and use blue or black ink.)
i. Download, complete and mail a voter registration application. Download the form
from http://sos.ga.gov/index.php/elections/register_to_vote, type information in
the PDF form, print, and mail the self-addressed and postage paid form.
ii. Obtain a mail-in registration form from the Camden County Board of Registrars'
Office, Public Library, Post Office, public assistance office, (DOL) recruitment
office, schools and other government offices.
iii. College students can obtain Georgia voter registration forms from their school
registrar's office or from the office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs.
iv. The completed form may also be hand delivered to the Camden County Registrars
Office in Woodbine, Ga.
c. (ONLINE) Access, complete, and submit the on-line application at (http://sos.ga.gov/) or
https://registertovote.sos.ga.gov/GAOLVR/#no-back-button.
4. (HOW)
a. Follow the instructions provided in the paper application form or online application form.
(You do not have to declare a party to register to vote.)
b. To register IN PERSON or BY MAIL you must submit a copy of your identity with
your application. Acceptable forms of identification include: a driver's license or other
photo ID, a current utility bill, a paycheck stub or another government document showing
your name and address such as your passport. (Be sure to sign the form.)
c. To use the ONLINE Voter Registration System you must have a valid driver’s license or
identification card issued by GA Department of Driver Services (DDS) with signature on
file with DDS. If you do not have a valid driver’s license or identification card, the
ONLINE link will allow you to complete, print, and submit (mail) a paper registration.
Note: An Applicant routinely receives an acknowledgment within two to four weeks.
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How to Check or Change Voter Registration Status? To check your Voter Registration Status and obtain other information, you can:
1. Contact the Voter Registration Office (Woodbine, Ga.) at 912-576-3245; or
2. Use the “MY Voter Page” (MVP). Log In at http://mvp.sos.ga.gov/ to check your:
Voter registration status
Mail-In application and ballot status
Poll location
Early voting locations
Elected Officials
Registration information on file with the county office
Sample ballot for the upcoming election
Provisional Ballot status
To change (update) your Voter Registration, you can:
1. Submit the change in person at the Voter Registration Office (Woodbine, Ga.), or
2. Access the Online Voter Registration System at https://registertovote.sos.ga.gov/GAOLVR/#no-
back-button. To use this online service, you must have a valid driver’s license or identification
card issued by GA Department of Driver Services (DDS) with signature on file with DDS. If you do
not have a valid driver’s license or identification card, the link will allow you to manually submit
a paper request to mail and request your voter registration. (This is the same link and form that
is used to register to vote.)
CHANGE OF RESIDENCE Voters are required to notify the board of registrars of their county of residence whenever they move.
If you move within the same county in which you are registered to vote and don't notify the
registrar at least 30 days prior to an election, you may vote in your old polling place for that
election. You must file a notice of your new address. This can be done by writing to your county
board of registrars' office, or by submitting a new voter registration application.
If you move outside the county in which you are registered to vote within 30 days of an election,
you may vote in your old precinct for that election.
If you move outside the county in which you are registered to vote in excess of 30 days prior to
an election, you have lost your eligibility to vote in the county of your old residence. You must
register to vote in your new county of residence. You will be assigned a new voting precinct and
polling location. Remember, if you don't register to vote by the deadline, you cannot vote in that
particular election.
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How to Request an Absentee Ballot and How to Vote by Absentee Ballot
Request an Absentee Ballot
On the next page is an example of the Georgia “APPLICATION FOR OFFICIAL ABSENTEE
BALLOT”. Application forms are available in the “GET OUT THE VOTE” booth.
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Registrar’s Office Processing of Absentee Ballot Request
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On this page are examples of three envelops used to mail the Absentee Ballot – to and from the
Absentee Voter.
For demonstration purposes, the actual envelops are available in the “Get Out The Vote” booth.
ATTENTION: Georgia law states that you can submit a request for an absentee ballot request (to be
received by the Registrar) as late as Friday noon prior to the Tuesday election. (Note: Because of the
tight turnaround time, the Voter is cautioned not to not wait until the last minute.)
Once approved, the voter will receive the absentee ballot in the mail.
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The following are example ballots for a run-off election.
Paper copy examples are available in the “GET OUT THE VOTE” booth.
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Filing Out and Submitting an Absentee Ballot
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The completed ballot can be hand delivered or mailed to the Woodbine office.
IT CANNOT BE FAXED OR EMAILED.
The ballot CANNOT be turned in at any polling place for early voting or on Election Day.
If the absentee voter forgets to mail the ballot, s/he must hand deliver it to Woodbine on
Election Day OR go to the voter’s polling place and ask the poll supervisor to invalidate the
absentee ballot and permit the voter to vote by machine.
What is the Roll-over List?
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Military and Overseas Voting
Your Georgia voting rights extend all over the globe and we want to make voting outside of your
home county easy and efficient. Please refer to this website for important updates and notices.
We look forward to serving you. http://sos.ga.gov/index.php/elections/military_and_overseas_voting2
Important Notice: Military and overseas voters may now choose to receive their ballots either
electronically or by regular mail. Please remember to include a valid email address on the
application when requesting electronic ballot delivery (EBD).
Forms and Instructions
Voter Registration and Absentee Ballot Request
The Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) registers you to vote and requests absentee ballots for
all primaries, runoffs, and general elections involving Federal candidates, and any other elections
for which you are eligible, for a period extending through the next regularly scheduled general
election of November 6, 2012. Even if you are already registered to vote, you should use the
FPCA to request absentee ballots.
Please use one of the following options to obtain your FPCA. You must complete, sign, and
submit the form to your county registrar office via email (attachment), fax, or U.S. mail.
FPCA - Federal Post Card Application
RUNOFF BALLOTS
The Georgia Secretary of State provides a special absentee ballot, called the Statewide Write-in
Absentee Ballot (SWAB) for eligible UOCAVA voters to use in the event of a runoff election. If
an absentee ballot was requested for the primary or election, the voter will automatically be sent
the necessary SWAB voting materials for a runoff.
SWAB - State Write In Ballot
EMERGENCY BALLOTS
The Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot is an emergency blank ballot that should only be used in
the event a UOCAVA voter does not receive a properly requested absentee ballot and/or SWAB.
Submission deadlines are the same as other ballots.
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How Do I Use the Voting Machine?
The demonstration (training) model voting machine will ask the voter to cast a ballot for Camden
County Dogcatcher. Names of two candidates will appear along with the option to write in a
candidate.
Caution: Please inform the voter that the state of Georgia laws regarding write in votes is unique. In
order for a “Write In” vote to be counted, the (write in name) person must have completed the
qualifying process that listed candidates have. In reality, if a person completed the qualifying process
his/her name would be on the ballot. Because of this technicality in Georgia law, a write in vote is a
wasted vote. The write-in vote will not be counted.
When you enter the designated voting location, you will be asked to present a Government-issued
Identification with your picture. The poll worker will confirm your voter status and will issue you a voter
access card.
For demonstration purposes, Volunteers will perform the tasks of the “Poll Worker; starting with
resetting the voter access card and then providing it to the person that will use the demonstration
voting machine. From this point on, follow the following instructions.
The VOTER will:
1. Insert Card Insert the voter access card into the slot to the right of the screen. The card should be face up with the arrow pointing left and should be pushed firmly into the slot until it clicks.
2. Read Instructions Screen Before you begin the voting process, you can magnify or change the contrast of the ballot to help increase readability. To begin voting, touch the "Next" button on the screen. You will use the "Next" button to see each ballot page until you have reached the end of the ballot.
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3a. Select Candidates or Issues OR Select Write-In if Desired Touch the box on the screen next to your choice. An "X" will appear, designating your selection. To change or cancel your selection, touch the box again and make another selection. If there are write-in candidates for whom you wish to vote, select "Write-In" and a keyboard will appear on the screen.
3b. Select Write-In Candidate Separately type the name of each person you want to write-in, then select "Record Write-In." The normal voting screen will return and the name you entered will appear as the choice for that particular race. touch "Back" to review previous pages.
4. Review Your Ballot On the Summary Page review your choices. Items in red are races that were left fully blank or not fully voted. If you want to vote for a race that was left blank or not fully voted, or change your vote for any race, just touch that race on the screen and you will be taken back to the proper page to make or change your selection.
Step 5 is not applicable.
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6. Cast the Ballot Touch "Cast Ballot" when you are ready to record your vote. Once your ballot has been cast, the printer will scroll to hide your selections.
7. Finish: Remove Card You have completed the electronic touch screen voting process. Remove your voter access card and return it to a poll worker.
Actions for the Volunteer:
After the visitor has returned the Voter Access Card, discuss the experience and ask if there are any
questions.
Prior to reissuing the Voter Access Card,
1. Turn on (if not already on) the Voter Card Encoder.
2. With the arrow facing up and towards the Voter Card Encoder, insert the (Yellow) Voter Access
Card in the (reset device) Voter Card Encoder.
3. Select “Yes” and remove card.
4. Issue card to visitor and guide them through the voting process as explained above – Step #1.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQs https://registertovote.sos.ga.gov/GAOLVR/faqPreview.do#VOTER
REGISTRATION
PRE-ELECTION
VOTER REGISTRATION
VOTING
PRIMARY ELECTIONS
AFTER THE ELECTION
POLL WORKERS
PRE-ELECTION
CandidatePre-Election
PRE-ELECTION > Candidate Q. What agency should I contact if I have campaign finance questions? Where do I file my
campaign reporting forms?
A. Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission at 200 Piedmont
Avenue SE, Suite #1402 ? West Tower, Atlanta, GA 30334 / Toll Free: 1-866-589-7327 /
Telephone: 404-463-1980 / Legal Department Fax: 404-463-1988 / Education Department Fax:
404.463.0229 / Website: www.ethics.ga.gov
Q. Can a candidate withdraw from a race ?
A. A candidate can withdraw from a race as provided under O.C.G.A. � 21-2-134(a)(2). All
votes for the withdrawn candidate shall be void and shall not be counted.
PRE-ELECTION > Pre-Election Q. I am concerned about receiving automated calls, often called "robo calls." What should I
do?
A. Currently Georgia law does not prohibit political "robo calls." Contact the "National Do Not
Call Registry" for guidance and direction.
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VOTER REGISTRATION
Felony ConvictionOnline Voter RegistrationStatisticsUOCAVAVoter Registration
Voting & Voting RegistrationVoteSafe
VOTER REGISTRATION > Felony Conviction Q. I have a felony conviction. Can I vote?
A. Convicted felons are not eligible to register and vote in the State of Georgia except upon
completion of the sentence, including any probation, parole, or payment of fines owed.
VOTER REGISTRATION > Online Voter Registration Q. Do I need a Georgia driver license or Georgia identification card to apply to register to vote
online?
A. You need a valid Georgia driver's license or identification card to register to vote online,
because you are giving permission to allow the State to use your signature on your driver's
license or identification card for your voter registration.
Q. What happens if the Department of Motor Vehicles does not have my signature on file
when I try to submit an application online?
A. You will be notified that your signature file is unobtainable. You will be able to print a copy
of your application and mail it in to your county registrar's office. You can find the mailing
address, location, and driving directions to your county registrar by navigating to the My Voter
Page (MVP) web link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. Am I automatically registered to vote when I submit the online application?
A. No, you are not registered in Georgia until the application is approved by your county
registrar.
Q. Are voter registration applications available in languages other than English?
A. In Georgia, at this time, voter registration applications are available in English.
Q. Can an iPad, tablet, or smartphone be used to complete an online voter registration
application?
A. You can use an iPad, tablet, iPhone or Android to complete an online voter registration
application. Registering online in Georgia requires applicants to have a valid Georgia Driver's
License or Identification Card issued by the Department of Driver's Services (DDS) and be
willing to allow the State to use your signature from you driver's license or identification card
as your signature of record when registering to vote.
Q. What online voter registration applications are approved for use in Georgia?
A. The State of Georgia Application for Voter Registration (VGA-10) is the form used to
register online to vote in Georgia.
Q. What does the Reference Number mean when registering to vote online?
A. This number is assigned when you register online for reference if you should need to check
the status of your application.
VOTER REGISTRATION > Statistics Q. Where can I find voter registration statistics?
A. Voter registration statistics can be found on the Secretary of State's Elections website at
www.sos.ga.gov by navigating to the Elections and Results and Stats tab.
Q. Can the Secretary of State provide demographic, e.g., race, age, gender, etc., statistics for
the voting population?
A. Voter demographic statistics can be found under the Secretary of State's Elections website
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at www.sos.ga.gov by navigating to Election and Results and Stats tab.
VOTER REGISTRATION > UOCAVA Q. I am eligible to register but I am in the military, living abroad, or temporarily living outside
of Georgia. Can I register to vote online?
A. Yes, but some limitations apply. Beginning in early 2014, online registration will be
applicable in Georgia but you must have a valid Driver's License or Identification Card issued
by the Department of Driver's Services.
Q. What are the options available to absent active duty military and overseas voters?
A. The Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) voter can request
an absentee ballot be delivered by mail or by Georgia's Electronic Ballot Delivery program.
Q. When is the earliest date that absent active duty military and overseas electors can request
absentee ballots?
A. Check the Secretary of State's website for UOCAVA requirements and absentee ballot
request submission details. UOCAVA voters only need submit one absentee ballot request for
an election cycle.
VOTER REGISTRATION > Voter Registration Q. Are voter registration applications available in languages other than English?
A. In Georgia, at this time, voter registration applications are available in English.
Q. Who can register to vote in the State of Georgia?
A. To register to vote you must: Be a citizen of Georgia and of the United States; be a resident
of Georgia and of the county or municipality in which he or she seeks to vote; be at least 17 ½
years of age; not be serving a sentence for conviction of a felony involving moral turpitude;
and/or have not been found mentally incompetent by a judge.
Q. If I send my registration by the deadline, what happens to my registration?
A. The Office of your County Registrar will process your application within 2-4 weeks and
will send you a voter registration card via return mail.
Q. Am I registered to vote?
A. You can verify whether you are a registered voter in Georgia by accessing My Voter Page
on the Secretary of State's website, or, beginning in January 2014, your mobile application.
Contact your county registrar for additional assistance and you can find the location and
driving directions to your county registrar by navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link
at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. If I registered to vote by mail, how do I know my registration has been received and
processed?
A. You can check your registration status from My Voter Page online or via mobile application
or by calling your county registrar. You can find contact information for your county registrar
by navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. I registered with the Department of Drivers Services, how do I know my registration has
been received?
A. You can check your registration status from My Voter Page online or via mobile application
or by calling your county registrar. You can find contact information for your county registrar
by navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. I did not vote in the last election, do I need to re-register?
A. No, you will not be required to reregister if you elect not to vote in a particular election. If,
however, your record shows that you are in "Inactive" status, this means that you have not had
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contact with your county election office within the last three years. If the record remains in
"Inactive" status through two federal general elections, your status will be changed to
"Cancelled" status. If you have questions regarding your voting status, please contact your
county registrar and you can find contact information for your county registrar by navigating to
the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. What should I do if I have just moved? Am I required to re-register?
A. You are not required to reregister. You do need to change your address using either a voter
registration form or the online registration site.
Q. What should I do if I changed my name? Am I required to re-register?
A. You are not required to reregister. You do need to change your name using either a voter
registration form or the online registration site.
Q. What is the deadline to register to vote?
A. See the Secretary of State's website at www.sos.ga.gov for the most current dates for
elections.
Q. I missed the deadline to register to vote. Is there any way I can still vote in the current
election?
A. If you missed the voter registration deadline, you will be ineligible to vote in the current
election. You may still register to vote and be eligible to vote in future elections.
Q. I registered to vote a while ago but I never got a registration card from my county elections
official. Am I registered?
A. You can verify whether you are a registered voter in Georgia by accessing My Voter Page
on the Secretary of State's website at www.sos.ga.gov, or, beginning in January 2014, your
mobile application. Contact your county registrar for further assistance, and you can find
contact information for your county registrar by navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web
link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. I submitted a voter registration application through another agency, but my county elections
office says I am not a registered voter. What can I do?
A. If you are not registered to vote, fill out a State of Georgia Application for Voter
Registration online or manually and submit your application via the channel you use. Contact
your county registrar for further assistance and you can find the contact information for your
county registrar by navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. How do I cancel my Georgia voter registration?
A. Contact your county registration office and advise them you would like to cancel your voter
registration in Georgia. You can find the contact information for your county registrar by
navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. If I have/had problems registering to vote or have additional questions who should I
contact?
A. Start with your country registration office. You can find the contact information for your
county registrar by navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
If, however, the county registrar's office cannot or do not satisfy your questions, contact the
Secretary of State's Elections Office at: Georgia Elections Office, 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr.,
Suite 802 Floyd West Tower, Atlanta, GA 30334 / Telephone: (404) 656-2871 / Fax: (404)
651-9531 E-Mail: [email protected]
Q. Is voter registration information confidential?
A. No with exceptions for Vote Safe voters; refer to O.C.G.A § 21-2-225
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VOTER REGISTRATION > Voting & Voting Registration Q. Can I vote online? Is online voter registration related to online voting?
A. Currently the State of Georgia does not offer online voting, but the State of Georgia does
offer online registration with a valid driver's license or identification card.
VOTER REGISTRATION > VoteSafe Q. I am a victim of domestic violence, how can I protect myself when I register to vote as
detailed under O.C.G.A § 21-2-225.1?
A. State law requires the public availability of voter lists including names and address of
registered voters. In 2009, the Georgia Legislature enacted a bill known as the VoteSafe
program to provide for the confidentiality of residence addresses of certain registered voters
who have been, or may be, subject to acts of family violence or stalking or currently reside in a
family violence shelter; refer to O.C.G.A § 21-2-225.1.
Q. Who is eligible to be in the VoteSafe Program as detailed under O.C.G.A § 21-2-225.1?
A. You are if you are a resident of the State of Georgia; you are registered to vote in the State
of Georgia and you have met one of the following qualifications: You have a protective order
under O.C.G.A. § 19-13-4 or under a similar provision of law in another state; You have a
restraining order or protective order under O.C.G.A. § 16-5-94 or under a similar provision of
law in another state; or you are a bona fide resident of a family violence shelter, as defined in
O.C.G.A. § 19-13-20; refer to O.C.G.A § 21-2-225.1.
Q. How do I apply to be in the VoteSafe Program?
A. Submit a VoteSafe Application; and submit at least one of the following: VoteSafe
Affidavit attesting that you have obtained a protective order or restraining order; or VoteSafe
Resident Certification signed by the operators of a Department of Human Resources (DHR)
approved family violence shelter certifying that you are a bona fide resident of such shelter.
And, then submit all required documents to your office of county registrar, as well you can find
the location and driving directions to your county registrar by navigating to the My Voter Page
(MVP) web link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. Who will have access to the residence address listed on the VoteSafe application?
A. The residence address of a VoteSafe participant will remain confidential at all times from
public disclosure and shall be used only for voter registration purposes.
Q. Who will receive copies of VoteSafe records, files, and documents?
A. All VoteSafe participant records, files and documents will be kept confidential and shall be
used only for voter registration purposes.
Q. Is there an expiration date for VoteSafe status?
A. Participant's residence address information is kept confidential for four (4) years following
the date of approval by the registrar unless withdrawal or cancellation occurs before the
expiration date.
Q. Can participation in the VoteSafe program be cancelled?
A. The registrar will cancel a participant's certification if a participant: Files a request for
withdrawal; applies using false or incorrect information; moves out of the county without
reapplying for VoteSafe participation; moves out of the State of Georgia; does not maintain
voter registration in the State of Georgia.
Q. What happens if the voter moves while participating in the VoteSafe program?
A. If the voter registers to vote in another county, while participating in the VoteSafe program,
a new application, signed affidavit and supporting documentation must be filed with the new
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Get out the Vote in Camden County, Georgia Page 25 of 31
county registrar, in order to continue the confidentiality of the voter's residence address.
Q. Can a new name be obtained through the VoteSafe program?
A. VoteSafe is not a witness protection program and does not assist participants in obtaining
new names, social security numbers, or relocating to a new residence. Furthermore, VoteSafe
is not a legal services program providing applicants or participants with legal representation or
advice.
VOTING
AbsenteeAbsentee/Early VotingAssistance at the PollCandidate DetailsPoll
AccessProvisionalSample BallotVoteSafeVotingWhere to Vote
VOTING > Absentee Q. What if I requested an absentee ballot but I want to vote in person on Election Day?
A. You can vote on election day but you will be required to return your unused ballot to the
poll officer at your polling place. He/she will destroy the absentee ballot and you may vote on
the touch screen voting equipment.
Q. Can anyone vote early or absentee in Georgia?
A. A registered voter does not need a reason to vote early in Georgia. Contact your local
county registrar's office for dates and times of early voting locations.
Q. How can I vote a vote-by-mail (absentee) ballot?
A. Submit an absentee ballot request to your county registrar's office. Absentee ballot
applications are available on the Secretary of State's website at www.sos.ga.gov or from your
county registrar, and you can find the contact information for your county registrar by
navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. When is the last day to return my voted vote-by-mail ballot?
A. When you receive your ballot in the mail, your local county registrar will have
documentation with your ballot telling you the last day it can be mailed and counted.
Q. How do I turn in my vote-by-mail ballot in on Election Day?
A. Other than UOCAVA ballots, all vote by mail ballots must be received by close 7:00 pm on
election day.
Q. When are the first and last days I can request an absentee ballot?
A. Dates to request absentee ballot are listed on the Secretary of State's website at:
www.sos.ga.gov.
Q. I received my absentee ballot by mail as I requested, but my plans changed and I want to
vote in person, what do I do?
A. Take your absentee ballot with you to the poll and the poll manager or poll worker can
cancel that ballot and allow you to vote on the touch screen. You must RETURN your
cancelled ballot in order to vote, however.
VOTING > Absentee/Early Voting Q. Does Georgia offer "early voting"?
A. Yes. Contact your county registrar for early voting locations and times. You can find the
contact information for your county registrar by navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web
link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
VOTING > Assistance at the Poll
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Q. I am physically disabled and need assistance. Will my polling place be accessible?
A. Yes all polling places are handicapped accessible and are equipped to assist the hearing and
seeing impaired.
Q. I am over 75 years old. Do I have to wait in line?
A. Polling places in Georgia are open from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm on Election Day. If you are at
least 75 years of age or have a disability that would require assistance in voting and you arrive
at your polling place between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm, you are not required to wait in line. A
voter wishing to move to the front of the line should inform a poll officer before moving to the
front of the line.
Q. If I need help when I vote at my polling place, what are my options?
A. Inform your poll officer that you need assistance.
Q. What accommodations are made for handicapped or disabled voters?
A. Georgia polls are all handicapped accessible, as well as equipped to assist the hearing and
seeing impaired.
VOTING > Candidate Details Q. How do I find out what my legislative and congressional districts are?
A. This information is available through the Secretary of State's website at www.sos.ga.gov.
Go to Elections, then Log into My Voter Page at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov. A link to your Federal
and State districts and representatives will be available.
Q. Are candidates always in the same order on the ballot?
A. Ballot order is codified via one of the following: Same nomination or office with same or
similar name O.C.G.A. §§ 21-2-288, 21-2-379.5; Nonpartisan O.C.G.A. §§ 21-2-285.1;
Official Elections Ballots O.C.G.A. §§ 21-2-285; Official Primary Ballots O.C.G.A. §§ 21-2-
284, and Substitute Candidates O.C.G.A. §§ 21-2-289.
VOTING > Poll Access Q. What hours are my polling place open on election day?
A. Polling locations in Georgia are open on election day from 7:00 am till 7:00 pm.
Q. It is 6:50 p.m. and my precinct is closed or closing and they will not let me vote. What
should I do?
A. Call your country election superintendent or Office of the Secretary of State and inform
them that your local poll is not open and it is not yet 7:00 p.m. You can find the contact
information for your county registrar by navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at:
www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. Where is my polling place?
A. Under the Secretary of State's website at www.sos.ga.gov, click on the Elections tab, and
then My Voters Page. Once you log in to the system, click on to the section that reads,
"Directions to my Poll."
Q. There are equipment problems at my precinct and I cannot vote. What should I do?
A. If there are equipment problems at your poll, you still should be able to vote via a
provisional ballot. Ask to speak directly to the poll manager.
Q. I have been approached by candidates or others at the polls.
A. Report anything you believe to be violating the law to any poll worker.
Q. Why was my precinct/polling place changed?
A. There are various reasons a precinct/polling place location may change. Contact your
county registrar for details regarding precinct or polling place location changes that relate to
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Get out the Vote in Camden County, Georgia Page 27 of 31
your individual situation. You can find the contact information for your county registrar by
navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
Q. How many polling places are open on Election day?
A. That depends on what type election is being held. If it is a statewide or federal election,
there are approximately 3,000 precincts staffed by approximately 15,000 poll workers in
Georgia's 159 counties.
Q. Can a candidate be present at the polling place on election day for any other reason than to
vote?
A. Unless the polling place is where the candidate votes, he/she cannot be present in a polling
place. Georgia law provides that there is to be no campaigning within 150 feet of the outer
edge of the building within which a polling place is established or within any polling place.
Q. What are the rules regarding exit polls?
A. Exit polling is permitted as long as it is done at least 25 feet from the building in which a
polling place is located.
Q. What are the rules regarding poll watchers?
A. A poll watcher may be permitted behind the enclosed space for the purpose of observing the
conduct of the election and the counting and recording of votes. However, the poll watcher
shall in no way interfere with the conduct of the election, and the poll manager may make
reasonable regulations to avoid such interference.
VOTING > Provisional Q. I do not have any identification with me. Can I vote?
A. Yes. The poll worker will allow you to vote provisional. In order for your vote to count, you
will need to present identification to your local county registration office by the 3rd day after
the election.
Q. I am a registered voter who is not on the rolls at my precinct. Can I vote?
A. You may vote a provisional ballot. After the election, you will be able to check whether
your vote counted by navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at:
www.mvp.sos.ga.gov., and after clearing sign on protocols, click Check Your Provisional
Ballot Status.
Q. I have been offered a provisional ballot. What should I do?
A. Vote. If you have been asked to vote a provisional ballot, you may need to remedy an issue
by the 3rd day after the election. The poll officer will give you instructions for what you need
to do.
Q. If I vote a provisional ballot, will I be required to go to the County registrar's office in order
for my vote to count?
A. If you vote a provisional ballot, you will be given written instructions as to how to remedy
the provisional status so that your vote will count.
Q. During early voting, if a voter's name is not on the elector's list, will the voter complete a
provisional voter's certificate and voter registration application?
A. Yes, as provided in O.C.G.A. § 21-2-418, a person voting a provisional ballot shall
complete an official voter registration form and a provisional ballot voting certificate
Q. Must a voter be provided a provisional ballot, if the voter is in the wrong precinct and does
not have time to get to the correct precinct?
VOTING > Sample Ballot Q. Where can I find a sample ballot?
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Get out the Vote in Camden County, Georgia Page 28 of 31
A. Sample ballots are available at the polling location where you vote (on election day), at your
county registrar's office and at My Voter page on the Secretary of State's website at
www.sos.ga.gov, as well you can find the telephone numbers, location, and driving directions
to your county registrar by navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at:
www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
VOTING > VoteSafe Q. I am a victim of domestic violence, how can I protect myself when I go to my poll site or to
vote?
A. Yes, Georgia makes provisions for victims of domestic violence, contact your county
registrar for more details and you can find the location and driving directions to your county
registrar by navigating to the My Voter Page (MVP) web link at: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov.
VOTING > Voting Q. What kind of voting systems are available in Georgia?
A. Georgia has a statewide voting system, used in all county, state and federal elections.
Electors use Touch Screens voting equipment to cast ballots in person or optical scan ballots to
vote by mail or to cast a provisional ballot.
Q. May I bring a sample ballot from my political party or the newspaper in to my polling
place?
A. Yes, you may bring a sample ballot with you when you vote. If you do not bring one with
you, there will be one provided for you at the polls on Election Day,
Q. Can I wear a campaign button or shirt to my polling place in Georgia?
A. No. There cannot be any campaign oriented materials worn or displayed while in or at the
poll. Your poll officer will ask you to remove or cover it if you come to the poll with any
campaign material displayed.
Q. Can I bring my child or children with me when I vote on Election Day?
A. Yes, but you will be asked to keep your children with you and be respectful of other voters.
They cannot interfere with the voting process. They are not allowed to touch the Touch Screen
voting equipment.
VOTING > Where to Vote Q. I am a college student, can I vote on campus?
A. It's possible, but not probable, because you are assigned a precinct when you register to
vote, and you must vote at your assigned precinct or one of the early voting centers.
Q. I have moved within the same PRECINCT and have not updated my address for voter
registration purposes. Where should I vote?
A. You should vote where you are registered today and fill out a change of address card so the
county registrar can send you an updated registration card with the correct address.
Q. I have moved to a different precinct within the same COUNTY and I have not updated my
address for voter registration purposes. Where should I vote?
A. You should vote where you are registered today and fill out a change of address form so the
local office of county registrar can change your address and send up an updated Voter's
Registration Card reflecting your new address and precinct/district combo.
Q. I have moved from one county to another and have not updated my address for voter
registration purposes. Where should I vote?
A. You should vote where you are registered today and fill out a change of address form so the
local office of county registrar can change your address and send up an updated Voter's
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Get out the Vote in Camden County, Georgia Page 29 of 31
Registration Card reflecting your new address and precinct/district combo.
Q. Where do I vote (for voter's who have not moved)?
A. Check My Voter Page on the Secretary of State's website or mobile application at
www.mvp.sos.ga.gov. My Voter Page will tell you where you are registered to vote complete
with driving directions.
PRIMARY ELECTIONS
Presidential ElectorsPrimary ElectionsSpecial Elections
PRIMARY ELECTIONS > Presidential Electors Q. How are Georgia's presidential electors chosen?
A. Georgia's presidential electors are chosen as provided in O.C.G.A. § 21-2-10.
PRIMARY ELECTIONS > Primary Elections Q. What are the qualified political parties and abbreviations of those party names?
A. There are two political parties that conduct primary elections in Georgia, Democratic
(DEM) and Republican (REP).
Q. If a candidate receives a majority of the vote (50 percent +1) in the primary election, will
there still be a general election?
A. Yes, even though a candidate receives 50% +1 vote in Georgia in a primary election, and
the other party or an independent does not put up a candidate to run against him/her, the
candidates name will appear on the General Election ballot.
Q. If there are only two candidates in the primary election, is a general election required?
A. Yes, even if the candidate is running unopposed, under Georgia law, the candidate will still
have to run in the General Election (even if there is only one candidate on the ballot.)
Q. Can independent candidates for voter-nominated offices run in the general election?
A. Yes, if the candidate has qualified and fulfilled his/her obligation to run as an independent,
he/she can run in the General election.
Q. Can write-in candidates for voter-nominated offices run in the general election?
A. Yes, if the candidate has met the minimum criteria to run as a write-in candidate, he/she can
run in the General election.
Q. How do I declare or change my party affiliation?
A. In Georgia, party affiliation does not appear on the voter registration record.
Q. What are the deadlines for the close of registration for federal and state elections?
A. The deadline for registration varies by election. Voter registration deadlines can be found on
the Georgia Secretary of State's website at www.sos.ga.gov.
Q. Do I have to vote in a primary election in order to vote in the general election?
A. No, you do not.
PRIMARY ELECTIONS > Special Elections Q. What do party preferences mean when listed with candidates' names on the ballot?
A. Candidates in special elections for partisan offices may choose to designate on the ballot
their party affiliation.
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AFTER THE ELECTION
Election ResultsRecount
AFTER THE ELECTION > Election Results Q. Are election returns for state offices on your website?
A. Yes, election results are located on the Secretary of State's website under the Elections
Division tab at www.sos.ga.gov.
Q. Why do vote totals on the Secretary of State's website change after Election Day?
A. Military and overseas absentee ballots may be received and counted up to 3 days after
election day. Provisional ballots may be counted up to 3 days after election day.
Q. When do election results become official?
A. State and federal election results are official when the Secretary of State certifies the
election results.
Q. If I vote in only one race will my ballot be counted?
A. Yes, whether you cast a vote in every race on the ballot or in one race, the votes you cast
will be counted.
Q. Where can I go to find past election results?
A. Election results can be found under the Elections tab on the Secretary of State's website at
http://www.sos.georgia.gov.
Q. Will past election results include information about votes cast for candidates and on
statewide ballot issues, the number of polling place and precincts, and turnout by county?
A. Yes. Check the Secretary of State's website for past results and statistics at www.sos.ga.gov
Q. On election night during the federal primary and general elections, where can I go for the
latest election results?
A. Election results can be found under the Elections tab on the Secretary of State's website at
www.sos.ga.gov. Official results will not be displayed until all of votes are counted, including
provisional ballots and ballots of military and overseas civilians.
AFTER THE ELECTION > Recount Q. What is a recount?
A. O.C.G.A. § 21-2-495 provides for recount procedures.
Q. Are recounts open to the public?
A. Yes, recounts are open to the public.
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POLL WORKERS
Poll Workers
POLL WORKERS > Poll Workers Q. What are the specific qualifications to be a poll worker?
A. Poll officers appointed pursuant to Code Section 21-2-90 and 21-2-91 shall be judicious,
intelligent, and upright citizens of the United States, residents of the county in which they are
appointed or, in the case of municipal elections, residents of the municipality in which the
elections are to be held or of the county in which that municipality is located, 16 years of age
or over, and shall be able to read, write, and speak the English language.
Q. How do I become a poll worker?
A. Anyone who is interested in serving as a poll worker in a future election should contact their
local county election office. The training and hiring of poll workers is a county election office
responsibility.
Q. Can I be excused from my regular job to be a poll worker?
A. While Georgia appreciates poll workers, gaining the ability to be excused during election
day when it falls on one of your normally scheduled workdays to work in the polls is a decision
that has to be made between you and your employer.
