As the November 2024 elections draw near, confusion surrounding voter registration is causing concerns across the political spectrum. Voter roll purging, a practice intended to maintain accurate voter registration lists by removing ineligible or outdated entries, has become a hot topic. While the process aims to ensure clean voter rolls, some fear it may be used to disenfranchise legitimate voters who do not align with a county’s preferred candidate.
According to the Brennan Center for Justice, a nonpartisan law and policy institute, voter roll purges have disproportionately affected Democratic precincts. This has led some to speculate that the election denial movement could be behind the push to challenge voter rolls, further fueling concerns about voter suppression.
Voter registrations can be removed for a variety of reasons, including death, relocation outside of a voting district, or inactivity in a specified number of elections. However, some voters have reported being removed despite not moving, with something as simple as mail forwarding leading to their registrations being canceled.
Adding to the confusion, voter registration maintenance is conducted at the state level rather than nationally, which has left many voters scrambling to confirm their eligibility—especially those still awaiting absentee ballots. Many have discovered that their registrations have been suspended, requiring them to re-register to vote in the upcoming election.
This issue has resonated on the UIS campus, where students from across the globe attend school, often registering to vote in jurisdictions outside of Sangamon County. Students face multiple options: they can register to vote using their campus address, return home to vote or request mail-in ballots. However, many are frustrated to learn last minute that their registrations are invalid, leading some to forego voting altogether.
To avoid becoming a victim of voter purging, students are encouraged to verify their registration status early by following these steps:
- Visit www.nass.org/can-I-vote.
- Select your state, which will direct you to your state’s election website.
- Follow the steps to confirm your voter registration status.
The website also provides resources for voter registration, polling location information, and absentee or early voting eligibility.
College students often face unique challenges in voting, from transportation issues to residency questions. But with resources like the Can I Vote website, verifying voter registration has never been easier. By checking your status and meeting registration deadlines, students can ensure their voices are heard in this crucial election.
The right to vote is fundamental, and college students have an important role to play. Don’t let voter purges or logistical difficulties keep you from participating in this year’s election.
