Congratulations on your upcoming graduation. Your hard work has paid off and you are well-equipped for the next exciting phase of your life. No matter what you choose, I encourage you to make a commitment now to become a full participant in our democracy by registering to vote.
For more than 40 years, 18-year-olds have had the right to vote. Your vote is both your right and your responsibility. This year, American voters will elect our nation's president. But it is important to remember that the leaders we elect at every level of government will have a great impact on our communities, the future of Ohio and the future of our nation.
To participate in the November 5, 2013 general election, simply fill out the voter registration form you may have already received, or click here to download an additional form, and return it to my office:
Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted
180 East Broad St., 15th Floor
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Completed forms must be received no later than October 7, 2013. After returning your form, you will receive more specific information from your county board of elections on your correct precinct and polling location. On this site, you can learn more about the voting process, your responsibilities and how you can take advantage of voting absentee by mail.
If you are looking for another way to being involved in the democratic process, I invite you to consider becoming a precinct election official. Each year, more than 40,000 Ohioans operate polling locations around our state. Boards of elections around Ohio are always looking for more precinct election officials.
For more information about the elections process, follow my office on Facebook (Facebook.com/OhioSOSHusted) or Twitter (OhioSOSHusted). You can also receive reminders of upcoming deadlines and other ways you can get involved before the election.
You've made it through all your social studies classes in school, now put what you've learned into practice by exercising your new right to vote this November.
Jon Husted
Ohio Secretary of State