CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – For many young Tennesseans, Nov. 3 will mark the first time voting in a presidential election; however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, additional steps may be needed to ensure first time voters are able to participate, including an in-person visit to the Election Commission Office.
Typically, the Montgomery County Election Commission works with CMCSS to visit schools and help students register to vote. With schools being forced to closed early, these visits did not happen this year, and many first time voters registered online instead.
Absentee ballot rules state that, in order to vote by mail, a person must either register in person or have voted in person at least once. This could mean first time voters who registered online will not qualify for an absentee ballot, posing a challenge for those going to college out of state or joining the military after school.
In a recent interview, Montgomery County Elections Administrator Elizabeth Black said that these students will need to stop by the Election Commission and present a valid ID in order to qualify of absentee voting.
Early voting for the November election begins on Oct. 14, and Election Day is Nov. 3.
To register to vote, or for voting assistance, visit the Montgomery County Election Commission’s website.