As elections loom, here’s how to vote   (Hudson Star Observer January 18 issue)

Link to the paid HSO LTE here.

“Make a plan to vote.” We’re going to hear that a lot this year. What does that mean, exactly? 

It means to mind the calendar, plan for contingencies, and be specific.

Most of us intend to vote. But any number of unforeseen reasons – school, work, family, travel – can easily prevent us from casting our ballots despite our best intentions. You do not want to sit out this year’s elections, so here are some things to consider as you make your plan to vote:

First, ensure that you are registered to vote. Check your status on myvote.wi.gov. It’s quick and easy. 

While you’re on the myvote website, consider requesting to vote by mail. Every Wisconsin voter can request an absentee ballot. You can request an absentee ballot for one election or the entire year.  

Don’t wait until the deadline — you need to give election officials time to process voter requests and mail out ballots. Once you submit your request, you can track it until your ballot arrives.

Review the candidates and issues and on the 2024 ballots, as well as the dates for the upcoming elections.  Here in St. Croix County, we have four election dates: 

• February 20 - Primary, only if two or more candidates are running for an office

• April 2 - Spring Election and Presidential Preference Vote

• August 13 - Partisan Primary

• November 5 - General and Presidential Election

Follow the instructions that come with your ballot and return it on time.

If you’re on social media, share with your social network how easy it is to register to vote by mail and help spread the joy of voting this year.