Voter 101: Preparing for November 5, 2024
In preparation for the upcoming November 5, 2024 election, we’re educating our readers and fans about voting in the state of South Carolina and this post is focused around Hilton Head & Bluffton, SC. From eligibility to your rights, this is an important post! Whichever way you choose to vote is of course, your choice. We aren’t here to tell you which way to cast your ballot but encourage each and every eligible voter to make their voice count.
Eligibility
The first step to voting is to register to vote and first off, making sure you are eligible. Ensure that you meet the following criteria, if you are not registered to vote.
1. You must be a U.S. citizen.
2. You must be a resident of South Carolina.
3. You must be at least 18 years old by Election Day.
4. You must not be convicted of a disqualifying felony or, if you have, your voting rights must have been restored.
How to Register
If you meet the eligibility requirements, registering is relatively easy in three different ways.
1. Registering Online: One of the easiest ways to register to vote in South Carolina is through the online voter registration system. Here’s how to do it: Visit the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. You will need a valid South Carolina driver’s license or ID card. Follow the prompts to complete your registration online.
2. Registering by Mail. If you prefer to register by mail, you can do so using the following steps: Download and print the South Carolina Voter Registration Application from the South Carolina Election Commission website. Fill out the application completely.Mail the completed application to your county’s voter registration office. For Hilton Head Island, the address is:
Beaufort County Board of Voter Registration and Elections
15 John Galt Road, Suite 1
Beaufort, SC 29906
3. In-Person Registration
You can also register to vote in person. Here’s where you can do for Hilton Head Island (it’s in Beaufort): 15 John Galt Road, Suite 1, Beaufort, SC 29906. Be sure to bring verification of identity and proof of citizenship.
After you’ve submitted your application, it’s essential to verify that you are registered. You can check your registration status on the South Carolina Election Commission website -- be sure to allow yourself 2-3 weeks for processing of your application which means if you are not registered to vote right now -- NOW IS THE TIME!
Election Day Prep
Before you head to the polls, make sure you know the candidates and the questions that you will be voting for. There are some great resources out there that can help you prep. Visit: https://vrems.scvotes.sc.gov/Voter/SampleBallot to see a sample ballot. From there, you can use a variety of resources, including campaign websites, to help research your choices and form your opinions. Knowledge is power!
Visit: https://vrems.scvotes.sc.gov/Voter/SampleBallot to see your sample ballot!
Early Voting
Any voter can visit an early-voting location in Beaufort County and vote like they would at their polling place on Election Day. Please note: your precinct is NOT open during this time period for early voting. Only the four (4) early voting centers are open in Beaufort County. Your precinct will only be open on election day. Here's where to go and when for EARLY VOTING for our November 5, 2024 election:
Monday, October 21 -- Friday, November 2
Closed Sunday (October 27), 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Monday - Saturday
Bring your Photo ID (or voter registration card if you do not have a Photo ID).
• Hilton Head (NEW LOCATION) - USCB -- Hilton Head Campus, Room 115, 1 Sand Shark Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• Bluffton Bluffton Recreation Center -- Gymnasium, 61A Ulmer Rd, Bluffton, SC 29910
Tips for Voting Day
1. Plan Your Timing: Consider going to the polls during off-peak hours, such as mid-morning or early afternoon, to avoid long lines. If you can, try to vote early!
2. Bring Necessary Supplies: Consider bringing water and snacks, especially if you anticipate waiting in line. A chair or portable cushion can also make waiting more comfortable.
3. Be Patient and Respectful: Remember that everyone is there to exercise their right to vote. Be patient with poll workers and fellow voters, and maintain a respectful attitude throughout the process.
4. Do your homework in advance. Remember to check out our posts on voting all month long on how to research and get prepared!
Voter Rights
Voters have rights that everyone should be aware of. Be prepared with your photo ID and know your voter rights.
Here are some of your rights as a voter:
1. Right to Assistance: Voters can receive help from poll workers or individuals of their choice (as long as they are not their employer or an agent of their union) if they need assistance with the voting process.
2. Right to Vote Without Intimidation: Voters should be free from coercion, threats, or harassment at the polls. If you experience intimidation, you have the right to report it to election officials or law enforcement.
3. Right to Vote After Hours: If you are in line when the polls close, you have the right to cast your ballot, even if it takes time to do so.
4. Right to a Provisional Ballot: If there are questions about your eligibility, you have the right to request a provisional ballot, which allows you to vote while your eligibility is verified.
5. Right to Privacy: Voters have the right to maintain their privacy while voting. No one should be able to see or influence your vote.
6. Right to Challenge: If you believe your voting rights are being violated, you can challenge the decision or actions of poll workers or other officials.
The biggest takeaway for us: if for any reason you are told that you are not eligible to vote, you should request a provisional ballot which allows you to vote while your eligibility is verified. Do not walk away without voting!
We hope you will vote early or vote on election day!