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With the federal elections right around the corner, the question many ask is can I vote? Do I have
the right to vote? The right to vote is a fundamental right ingrained in the history of the United
States. Voting right allows citizens to have a say in the selection of representatives, leaders, or
policies in a democratic system at a local, state or federal level.
As it relates to federal elections, the presidential election is right around the corner. The U.S
presidential election occurs every four years usually in November. For the year 2024, the next
presidential election will take place on November 5, 2024. Make no mistakes however, that not
everyone is eligible to vote. So, who can and cannot vote?
You can vote if you are:
1) A U.S citizen;
a. This includes a U.S citizen inside the United State, a U.S citizen living outside of
the United States, a U.S. citizen born abroad and a dual citizen living in the
United States or abroad.
2) Meet your state’s residency requirements;
a. Note, being homeless does not disqualify you from voting in your state;
3) You are eighteen (18) years old on or before election date; and
a. In many states, you can register to vote before you turn 18, that is, if you will be
eighteen by election day.
4) You are registered to vote based on your state’s registration deadline.
You might be able to see from the requirements listed above that this list does not include
noncitizens. And that is because non-U.S. citizens including permanent residents cannot vote in
federal, state and many local elections. Also, if you have a felony record, or have a mental
disability, your eligibility to vote may be affected.
It is also important to highlight that if you are a citizen, but are a resident of U.S. territory
(including but not limited to Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, U.S. Virgin Islands etc.),
then you cannot vote for the U.S. president. The current electoral college process does not allow
for residents of U.S. territories to vote in the U.S. presidential elections.
Be sure to check with your local election office if you have any specific question on your
eligibility to vote.
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