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

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.

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.

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 that will directly affect their everyday lives. 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.  

In Texas, state officials have closed hundreds of polling places, largely affecting communities of color. 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.

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.