You’ll very commonly hear that voting is important, but why is it? Voting is important because it allows you to have a say in the elected officials that are supposed to represent the citizens. It also allows the people to play a part in our democracy and express their opinions on topics and issues in our government 

   As of 2023, Tennessee is one of eight states that has below 50% voter turnout, and it has the lowest turnout of all 50 states. With many soon-to-be high school graduates being able to vote, it is important for them to know their options and why they should vote. 

   “I think that voting is important so that no matter what, as a whole, the decision comes from the people and not just one person makes all the rules. It makes sure it’s a fair thing, overall” said sophomore Marshall McGinnis. 

   For many young adults, the coming election will be the first time they can vote in the general election. Firstly, you will need to register, which you can find at TN.gov. However, you can also mail in your registration or there may be options at your school to register in person. All of these require you to be registered at least 30 days before election day, Nov. 5, 2024. 

   In Rutherford County, there are 28 voting centers that are open to your choosing from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. When voting in person, you need to bring some form of identification, such as driver’s license or United States passport. It is important to note that school IDs are not accepted. Additionally, if you are a first-time voter who registered via mail or online registration, you’ll need to bring a government document that shows the voter’s name and address. 

   Absentee voting (mail-in voting) is another option for some people. Only certain voters are eligible to vote via mail, one of which being a full-time student outside of your registered county. Before being able to absentee vote, you need to submit a request to your local county election commission office. Mail, fax, and e-mail are all available to submit your request, but it is important to remember to request the ballot at least seven days before the election. Once you receive the ballot, you must return it by the closing time of the polls on Election Day.  

   Early voting is a smart choice for those who cannot make it to a voting center on election day. At either your county election commission office or a satellite voting location, you are to vote early. Early voting for the general election begins twenty days before the election and ends five days before the election. 

   Senior, and new voter, Poe Rogers stated, “I feel like voting is such a huge responsibility, and of course I’m going to exercise my right, but I worry so much about picking a bad candidate or throwing away my vote. 

   Being a first-time voter can be a very daunting task. It is important to be informed about the candidates and for you to vote for who represents what you want for the country. 

   The right to vote helps ensure our part in the democratic process, and it is important for the people to take advantage of it. Whether it’s in person, mail in, or early voting, try to find the time to research and vote for the candidate you deem the best choice; with any luck, the Tennessee voter turnout will only grow.