A Vote Is A Vote

~ When you cast your ballot, you feel you have done your civic duty – but have you? ~ talkswitheve

I always thought that a vote is a vote. I didn’t realize there were stipulations – I was wrong. Born in Jamaica, I have been a naturalized United States citizen for many years now. As a JAmerican (Jamaican and American), I am still trying to understand politics in America.

Generally, I keep discussions on politics among a small circle of friends. However, I recently had someone ask me a question regarding when a vote is a vote. After some discussion, I went and found an article that highlighted our discussion.

If someone votes early and unfortunately passes away before Election Day, does their vote count? It is such a fascinating question, and as it is a current affairs issue, I could not ignore it.

How does your vote gets counted?

In order for your vote to get counted, you must take action and vote – cast your ballot for your candidates. Every state has its own rules and guidelines for voting. However, you must first be registered to vote to begin the voting process.

On Election Day, if you are voting in person, at the polling place you fill out a ballot (paper or touch screen) and submit (cast) your vote. At the end of the allotted time for voting, the polling place is closed for the counting of the votes to begin.

The ballots are collected and dropped off at various locations. Every state has its own process of the appointment of special observers (and watchers) who oversee (inspect) the proceedings from start to finish. The tabulation of the votes is a secure system.

What if you do not return your ballot in person but by mail?

Casting your ballot by mail follows much the same process as in-person – you must first register to vote. Then you request your ballot which is mailed to you. Once you receive your ballot and have made all your selections, you return it by mail.

Your signature on the return envelope for your ballot is very important as it is used to validate your ballot. Therefore, it is closely looked at when your ballot is received. The envelope is then opened, and the ballot checked, counted, tabulated, and reported. The deadline to report results varies for every state.

Counting votes is pretty much straightforward. The twist comes with a circumstance that is not straightforward. The example of a circumstance that seemed straightforward but with a twist is the reason for this article. There is a citizen who voted by mail, in time for the election, but she passed away before Election Day. Should her vote be counted?

How does your vote not get counted?

Your vote does not get counted if you die before Election Day – at least in the state of Indiana, and 17 other states. There are only 10 states that will count these ballots.

I believe I have the unique perspective of being relatively new to the process of voting. Therefore, in logically thinking of the process, in my opinion, the vote was cast on time so why would it not be counted?

It is a whole different ball of wax if someone uses the information of a deceased person to vote. Now that is a fraudulent vote and one which should NOT be counted.

A vote is a vote

Simplicity in life is my motto but I guess life is not really that simple. I think if someone voted in time before their death, their vote should be counted. Some states allow it and count those ballots. Why can’t every state?

Doesn’t every vote matter?