Vote early in the morning Nov 2 - how do we get the word out?

[Patiod]

Many states don't allow in-person voting before Nov 2 (like Pennsylvania).

We don't want new voters turned off by 2-hour lines to vote after work. Some polling places allow anyone in line when the polls close at 7pm to vote, but how many Republican election judges do you think will do that this year? (I know plenty in my area who will try to lock the doors at 7pm, and damn the lines out front)

We also want to be sure all those nice new anti-Bush registrations get to the polls in plenty of time in case there are problems with their registrations, too.

We need to encourage everyone we know to vote BEFORE work if possible, or vote mid-day.

[berner59]

1. I like AAR's idea...

"amuse the cues"....bring stuff to entertain the lines - bring extra fold-up seats and offer to the elderly...bring food - musical intruments...make it a party!! Will most businesses except people being late because of voting??

[vireo]

2. I think most states allow you to take time from work to vote

In my state (WI) the law says up to three hours, but it should be arranged with your employer before election day.

[murielm99]

3. They have to give you time off to vote.

They do not necessarily have to pay you, but they must let you have the time. Employers know this. It is like jury duty, only more important.

My husband once had a boss who threatened to fire him over jury duty. That is a big no-no. He took his story to HR, and the boss was reassigned.

Most people can get there before or after work without much hassle, but I bet this year will be different. Tell your employer if you think you will be late, or if you have to leave early.

I have two Democratic plumbers in my precinct who work about an hour away. They never get home until early evening. I have talked to them about leaving for work a bit later, and voting in the morning. They are good Democrats, but I am going to have to be up early on election day, to make sure they and others actually get to the polls.

[RoyalWickedness]

4. "fortunately" I don't have a job,

so I don't have to worry about it. My SO is taking the day off. We will be voting early and then taking his Dad and some other seniors from his apartment building to vote.

[murielm99]

5. Great!

Have a safe and productive election day.

[Kazak]

6. I always go in the morning...

before heading in to work. I'm usually there just after the polls open at 7:00 am, and I'm usually one of the first ten (or so) people to vote in my polling place.

[sunnybrook]

8. polls here open at 6 a.m. (St. Louis)

[Patiod]

7. There will be photos of long lines into the night on Nov 2

Especially in urban areas - mark my words.

That, and the thought that we have to open and hand-count absentee ballots makes me realize I aint' goin ANYWHERE that evening until late!