Election 2022: What NH Voters with Disabilities Need to Know
The 2022 Midterm Election is almost here. If voting for yourself or helping someone to vote, we know how confusing it can be with multiple candidates on the ballot. Add to that, the amount of information and confusion in positions that we hear across all platforms… So, wow do we sort through it all and learn about issues important to us and our beliefs?
1. First, find your sample ballot so you know what candidates are running in the town where you are registered. (printing out is recommended)
2. Then, use SIDE BY SIDE comparison by Vote Smart to compare and contrast candidates to see which one best fits your beliefs and what’s important to you.
Using SIDE BY SIDE is easy:
- Enter a candidate’s name in the search bar.
- Click on their name to select them.
- Repeat this for as many candidates you want to add.
- IT IS THAT SIMPLE
3. Get a step ahead and complete your sample ballot while making your choices and take it with you on Voting Day!
What NH Voters with Disabilities Need to Know
- You Have the Right to Vote Independently and Privately
No one can tell you how to vote or stop you from voting if you are eligible. It is your choice. Your vote is private and you can keep it a secret.
- Someone Can Help You Vote
Help can be provided by a friend, family member, caregiver, service provider, or a poll worker. The only people who cannot help you mark or cast your ballot are your employer or union representative.
- You Can Vote by Absentee Ballot
If you can’t vote in person because of your disability, you have the right to request an absentee ballot. An absentee ballot allows you to complete your ballot at home and either mail it in or deliver your ballot to your town or city clerk.
- You Have the Right to an Accessible Polling Place
Federal laws require all polling sites to be physically accessible. These laws ensure equal access for people with disabilities, including voters who use wheelchairs or who have vision loss. If your polling place is not accessible, you have the right to have an absentee ballot brought to you in your car or other accessible location outside of the polling location.
- You Can Use the one4all Accessible Voting System
In NH, our accessible voting system is called the one4all and it consists of a tablet, keyboard, headphones, and printer. It is available at every polling place for federal elections. The one4all is not connected to the internet and it is secure. All registered voters of all abilities can use the system. A blind or vision impaired person can use the system independently. Assistance is not necessary to vote but help is available if needed.
- You Can Register Anytime, Even on Election Day
There is no minimum period of time you are required to have lived in New Hampshire before being allowed to register. You may register to vote as soon as you move into your new community. Simply visit your local town or city clerk’s office. You will need to complete a standard Voter Registration Form and show proof that you reside in the town or city where you will vote. Remember, in New Hampshire you can register to vote on Election Day at the polling place.
- You Have the Right to Bring Your Service Animal with You to the Polling Place
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, service animals are allowed to go in areas of the polling place where the public is allowed to go.
- You Have the Right to Vote Even if you Have a Guardian
New Hampshire law protects your right to vote. Your right to vote cannot be taken away because you are under a guardianship, nor can a judge deny you your right to vote because you have a guardian.
- You Have the Right to Complain About Voting Issues
If you believe that your right to vote has been violated, you can file a complaint with the New Hampshire Secretary of State.
- Learn About the Candidates Before Election Day
It is important to learn about the issues and candidates before voting. Follow links at the beginning of this email to find out more!
For more detailed information on knowing your voting rights: