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Students for Democracy
  • Home
  • About Us
  • What is a Poll Worker?
  • Apply Now!
  • Why Involvement Matters
  • FAQs and Resources

VOTER SUPPRESSION IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN having the right to vote and being able to vote.

STATE LAWMAKERS play a key role in voter accessibility

In implementing certain laws, many law-abiding citizens, such as people of color, the disabled, and the elderly, face obstacles that limit their ability to engage in our democratic process. This is a significant population that continues to be politically underrepresented.

1. shifting voter registration rules

Although individuals only need to register once unless their address or name has changed, the voter registration process can be confusing for many people. Qualifications required for voter registration vary from state to state, and due to this intricate process, many voters may not have the right information needed to register. This issue is coupled with the fact that people are often not made aware of an upcoming election until it is too late to register. 


 In Texas, the registration requirements are as follows:

  • You must be a United States citizen.
  • You must be a resident of the Texas county in which application for registration is made.
  • You must be at least 18 years old on Election Day. 
  • You cannot be convicted of a felony.
  • Your application must POSTMARKED at least 30 days before an upcoming election in order to be eligible.

2. Off-cycle local elections

One of the biggest issues facing our democratic process is the notoriously low voter turnout for local elections. On average, only 21% of eligible voters participate in key local elections. In addition to having significantly reduced campaign spending and poor media coverage, this national problem is significantly due the fact that local elections are held separately from national elections. As a result, voters have to actively stay aware of upcoming elections held throughout the year.  

3. underfunded and understaffed polling places

In Texas, state officials have closed hundreds of polling places. Due to a rise in polling place closures, many voters have to endure long lines at locations that are financially unequipped and understaffed. As a result, hundreds of eligible voters are discouraged from voting due to having time conflicts involving work or children or having physical disabilities preventing them from standing for hours to vote.

...But there is good news!

There are plenty of ways that we work to circumvent these barriers. It is more important than ever for the youth to get more involved to elect politicians that fight for every American's right to vote.

Here's how you can help!

If your vote did not matter, voter SUPPRESSION would not exist.

What you can do

Become a poll worker

60% of poll workers are over the age of 60. By having younger, more diverse workers, we can strength the backbone of our democratic process. Efficient, well-trained workers help ensure everyone is able to exercise their right to vote as a US citizen. No voter should be turned away or discouraged due to inconsistent rules or long wait times. In addition, a younger election worker population will keep young voters informed of local, state, and national elections and increase voter turnout.

Learn more

Change starts at home

By partaking in local elections, you can ensure your voice is heard in decisions that directly affect your community. One of the biggest barriers preventing large voter turnouts is lack of accessible, clear-cut information regarding local candidates and propositions. Fortunately, you can reach out to local politicians and directly work for them as a canvasser or lit dropper to help voters make educated decisions. These individuals go door-to-door to inform voters and mobilize communities to action. 

Contact your senators

We believe that it is vital that every voice is heard and that every vote counts regardless of your race, gender, sexuality or social class. Our elections must reflect the will of the people. Contact your senator(s) now and encourage them to support bills that aim to secure voting right for all Americans, such as the The Freedom to Vote: John Lewis Voting Rights Act. 

Reach out

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  • About Us
  • What is a Poll Worker?
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  • Apply for Collin County
  • Apply for Dallas County
  • Apply for Denton County
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  • Apply for Ft Bend County
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  • Apply for Hidalgo County
  • Apply for Tarrant County
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