The Thurston Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) marked National Voter Registration Day on September 17 by emphasizing the importance of voter registration and participation.
The board’s official proclamation emphasized that voter registration empowers citizens to participate in the democratic process and underscored the county's commitment to encouraging voter participation.
“The strength of our democracy depends on the willingness of our citizens to participate by choosing the people who will lead us and by voicing their opinions on important matters that will come before the voters on Election Day,” the proclamation read.
Mary Hall, Thurston County Auditor, highlighted the significance of voting, describing it as "the cornerstone of our democracy," and stressed the critical role of voter registration in the democratic process.
“I encourage everybody to exercise their important right and vote in this upcoming election,” said Hall.
Hall announced that Thurston County now boasts over 200,000 registered voters, a milestone reflecting the area's growing population and commitment to civic engagement.
She also emphasized that registration has “never been easier” for county residents, particularly with the option for pre-registration at age 16 when obtaining a driver's license.
"That record is private until they turn 18, but as soon as they turn 18 and the first election they're eligible to vote in, they will receive a ballot," Hall explained.
Hall pointed out the simplicity of the registration process for those who have not yet registered. Registration can be completed online through vote.gov, requiring only a driver’s license or the last four digits of a Social Security number.
Hall reiterated the importance of this step, urging everyone to ask their friends and family, "Are you voting this year, and are you registered?"
The County also celebrated the recent completion of its new Voter Services and Voting Center at the Mottman Industrial Park, which provides streamlined voter services.
A second Voting Center at Timberland Regional Library in Lacey offers similar services, conveniently located for those who may not wish to travel far.
Both centers will open before the upcoming election, providing accessible options for voters in the county.
For Washington State online voter registration, click here.
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Boatyarddog
I urge EVERYONE to VOTE in this VERY important national Election.
We can protect our most valueable asset..
Freedom!
Thursday, September 19 Report this
ejpoleii
"Registration can be completed online through vote.gov, requiring only a driver’s license or the last four digits of a Social Security number." I would like to know how Mary Hall can guarantee that non-citizens, acting online, are screened for citizenship or even existence before registering a voter. Seems like a huge hole in the electoral process.
Saturday, September 21 Report this