Are You Ready for the November 8th General Election?

by Maria S. Salinas

The November General Election is less than 40 days away. Mark your calendar for Tuesday, November 8ᵗʰ to have your vote counted. In California, you can either vote at the polls on the day of the election or vote by mail in advance. All registered voters in California will receive a vote-by-mail ballot, arriving in the mail in early October. The last day to register to vote is October 24.

We believe every election is important for residents to engage and lend their voices in the political process. In the City of Los Angeles, there will be tremendous change with the election of a new Mayor, City Attorney, Controller, and several members of the City Council. Los Angeles will be governed differently than before. At the state and federal levels, we will also have important choices to make with our vote.

Last week, we heard from California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., who stressed how important it is to vote. Dr. Weber emphasized the power of the vote, how we as Americans all get one vote—no matter race, creed or wealth. She also shared how civic engagement is our duty, and how amazing it truly is to be able to influence change for the common whole. “When you don’t vote, you make others powerful, and you give away your freedom to someone,” said Dr. Weber.

The Chamber will work to stress the importance for residents to “get out the vote” — every ballot cast will make a difference. We agree with Dr. Weber, we can’t give away our freedom to vote. This November, we will have choices, and now is the time to be heard. The Chamber is actively engaged in voter education about the candidates and propositions on the ballot. We know important decisions will be made on November 8ᵗʰ which can’t be ignored.

Ensure your vote is counted, return your vote-by-mail ballot with prepaid postage postmarked on or before Election Day. Or return your ballot in-person to a secure, official L.A. County drop box location, or cast your vote at any L.A. County polling place by 8:00 p.m. on November 8th.