So, what's the use if I don't know the good it's gonna do And I'm standing on the doorstep of a country with the election day blues

Patrick Dunn, From “Election Day Blues”

Elections Day is tomorrow, November 4. Are you underwhelmed by the midterm elections—I mean, more so than usual? Well, according to the recent surveys, you’re not alone. Although interest in midterm elections is typically low, this year’s Pew Research Center survey and Gallup Poll expect much less engagement than the previous two midterms. In Ohio, experts predict the turnout could be as low as 40 percent—the lowest voter participation since 2007.

Visit the ACLU of Ohio’s Vote Center before you go to the polls.

Voting: The Top Five Whys But don’t let the Election Day blues keep you from voting as there are plenty of races and issues you’ll want to weigh in on. If you need encouragement, here are our top five reasons to energize you to vote:

  1. Vote because you can. It’s your constitutional right. One that Americans have fought dearly for since 1776.
  2. Your vote counts. Many people don’t believe their vote will make a difference, but your vote is more important than you think. In every election, there are races and ballot issues that are decided by a slim margin of votes. But it’s more than that. Collective action starts and is sustained by each person voting. The simple truth is that politicians pay attention to communities and groups who get out the vote.
  3. What happens in state and local elections matter. As we've seen around Ohio, our civil liberties are in jeopardy—from voter suppression to reproductive rights to the freedom to marry.
  4. It’s your life. Who gets elected and what ballot issues are enacted will ultimately affect every aspect of your life—your body, your health, your education, your job, your finances, your retirement, and your causes. Vote according to what you believe will benefit you and your community most.
  5. Democracy works better when you work at it. Voting is an important first step toward a more equal and healthy democracy, which depends on your participation. We are a government of the people, by the people and for the people.

Before You Go, Be in the Know To avoid hassles and ensure your vote in counted, be sure to:

  1. Check out a sample ballot before you leave home.
  2. Locate your polling place. It may have changed, even if you have not moved.
  3. Bring the appropriate ID with you to vote.
  4. Be on time. Polls are open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day.
  5. Follow all instructions printed on your ballot.

The more you know and plan for, the easier your voting experience will be. For more information about voting and your rights, visit the ACLU of Ohio’s Vote Center. So kick the Election Day blues to the curb and exercise your right to vote.