Kansas City Gears Up for a Busy Election Day
As Election Day approaches on November 5, excitement and anticipation fill the air in Kansas City. Voters will not only get to decide between presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump but also weigh in on a variety of local and state issues impacting their communities. Kansas and Missouri voters are preparing to cast their ballots, and it’s all hands on deck!
What’s on the Ballot?
This election is packed with significant choices. In Kansas, residents will be voting on local legislators, while Missouri voters are gearing up to select their next governor. Additionally, Missouri has some weighty issues regarding abortion rights and the minimum wage. Ballots will include several amendments and propositions that could reshape important policies, including a proposal to legalize sports betting and an amendment that could overturn current abortion restrictions.
Early Voting Success
Tens of thousands of Kansas City residents have already made their voices heard by casting their ballots early. Many chose mail-in ballots or went to in-person absentee voting, but remember—early voting locations can be a bit sparse in some counties, leading to long lines in places like Jackson County. If you haven’t voted yet, don’t worry! There are still plenty of opportunities to make sure your voice is counted.
Polling Locations and Hours
For those planning to vote on Election Day, polling places in Kansas are required to be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Some spots may even open earlier or close a bit later, so it’s a good idea to check beforehand. Meanwhile, Missouri polling places open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.. A crucial tip: if you’re still in line when the polls close, you have the right to vote, so hang tight!
Checking Your Polling Location
Considering that some polling locations may have changed since the last election, it’s super important to double-check before heading out. Kansas voters can use the VoterView tool, while Missouri voters can check with the state’s voter information search tool. Don’t skip this step—nothing’s worse than arriving at the wrong place!
When Can You Vote Early?
Early voting isn’t over just yet! You can still vote early on November 1st, 2nd, and 4th in both states. Keep in mind that the hours may differ, so be sure to verify them for your specific location. Missouri accepts early votes until 5 p.m. on November 4, while Kansas voting ends at noon on the same day.
Ballots and Identification
Missouri voters, take note! This is the first presidential election under the new ID requirements from 2022. You’ll need a current or recently expired photo ID issued by the federal government or the state of Missouri. Examples include a driver’s license, military ID, or a U.S. passport. If you don’t have an acceptable ID, you can still cast a provisional ballot, so don’t lose hope!
Kansas is a bit more flexible with ID requirements. Voters aged 65 and older can utilize an expired ID, and there’s a wide variety of other acceptable IDs—so make sure to check what works for you!
What to Bring
When you head to the polls, it’s a great idea to have your phone or sample ballot handy to help you remember who and what you want to vote for. However, remember to leave any campaign materials behind to avoid any issues with electioneering. And it’s best to skip wearing any political attire; those hats, shirts, and buttons might have to stay at home!
Weather and Accessibility
Weather-wise, brace for a cloudy day with a chance of rain, so you might want to dress accordingly and bring an umbrella just in case. Expect temperatures to range from a high of 59 degrees to a low of 42.
If you have any questions about voting, from registration to polling locations, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local election board. They’re there to help!
Stay Informed!
With so much happening this Election Day, it’s important to stay informed and engaged. Whether you’ve voted early or are planning to head to the polls on November 5th, every vote counts. Keep that excitement up, gather your materials, and let your voice be heard!
