Newark, DE The University of Delaware's Biden Institute, established at the School of Public Policy and Administration last spring, has partnered with Democracy Works, a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization, to bring TurboVote, an innovative voter registration platform, to UD students.
Democracy Works created TurboVote in an effort to make the voting process simple and seamless for all Americans. Since its inception, organizations and university communities across the country have developed and executed voter engagement projects using TurboVote as a foundation.
Here's why it's important
Vice President Biden often reminds us that elections are about who we are as a people. Participating in our democracy today means shaping the country and the world for future generations. Why then, shouldn't students and future leaders be equipped with the necessary tools and information to cast their votes?
Here's how it works
TurboVote is meant for all eligible citizens, but is especially useful for difficult-to-reach demographics like students living away from home. University of Delaware students can begin by registering through a custom TurboVote portal that is built upon three important pillars.
1. Voter Registration: TurboVote makes registering to vote quick and easy. The web app allows students to register in the state of their choice (e.g. home state vs. college state), automatically fills out the registration form, and sends both digital and paper copies to the student for review and signature. Self-addressed, pre-stamped envelopes accompany the form, which the student then returns via mail to finalize the registration process. In states where online voter registration is an option, TurboVote seamlessly guides the student through that specific process as well.
2. Voting by mail: Voting by way of an absentee ballot can be confusing, time-consuming and in some states, a major disincentive to participate at all. Where applicable, students can use TurboVote to vote by mail if desired, as it smoothly facilitates the absentee process so all you have to do is sign, mail and vote.
3. Election reminders: Registering to vote is important, but it is only the first step. TurboVote allows students to set reminders for the elections that they're eligible to vote in national, state and local. These reminders also alert students about absentee mailing deadlines and in-person polling places, depending on the student's preference.
Biden Institute Executive Director, Cathy McLaughlin, said of the voter engagement project, "Engaging in the political process is imperative for anyone who expects government to understand and address their needs. We are excited to harness the energy and vision of UD's students, to foster civic leadership and make participation the status quo."
Whether you vote in Delaware or another state, register with TurboVote and get informed before going to the ballot box.
