There are many decisions to make and actions to take when it comes to voting. Will I vote in person? Will I vote by mail? Where is my polling place? Will I vote in my home state or in Pennsylvania? Does it matter where I vote? What is the difference between state representatives and federal representatives? Which policies are important to me? Will my vote count?
Before answering these questions, it is important to decide where you will vote and make sure you are registered to vote. It is also important to understand the different races you are eligible to vote in. As college students, we have the right to vote where we reside.
How do I register to vote?
If you have never registered to vote, visit the site below and choose “New Registration.” If you want to change your voter registration to Pennsylvania, choose “New Registration.” If you are previously registered to vote in Pennsylvania but moved off campus or to West Campus, choose “Change Your Address.” Who you can vote for can change even with a move to another building. See the Linktree attached below for more.
Can I register at the polls?
No. It is important to know that one must register to vote before Oct. 21, 2024. That is the last day to register to vote. The election is on Nov. 5, 2024, which means the deadline to register to vote is roughly two weeks before the election.
Should I vote in my home state, or will I vote in Pennsylvania?
As college students, we have the right to vote where we reside. Pennsylvania is a swing state, which means that Republican and Democratic candidates have similar levels of support, and voter outcomes can play a large role in these states. In contrast to a state like Massachusetts, that has historically voted for Democratic presidential candidates since 1988, Pennsylvania is usually unpredictable. In addition to Pennsylvania, Nevada, Arizona, Michigan, Georgia, North Carolina and Wisconsin are also swing states.
Where is my polling place?
According to your address, you are given a specific location at which to vote. Students who live on campus are allowed to vote at the John and Joan Mullen Center for the Performing Arts, across from the Commons. Students who live off campus must vote at their respective polling locations and cannot vote on campus at the Mullen Center.
What races can I vote in and who will be on the ballot?
Villanovans have the opportunity to vote in local and federal races. At the top of the ticket, Villanovans can vote for the President of the United States. We can also vote for Pennsylvania’s U.S. Senator, which will all be the same regardless of where we live on or off campus. Respecting our addresses, we can vote for our Congressperson, state senators and state representatives. We also have the opportunity to vote for Pennsylvania Auditor General and Attorney General.
Vote 411 provides a list of who is on the ballot based on one’s address – see the Linktree below for a link to the site.
What are State Representatives and State Senators?
State legislature works on the state level and passes laws that affect Pennsylvanians. The Pennsylvania House of Representatives work alongside the governor to create laws and establish a state budget. The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has 203 members and is considered the lower chamber of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. All 203 members are up for re-election.
The Pennsylvania State Senate is the upper chamber of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. In 2024, 25 of the 50 state senators are up for re-election. All of the members of the General Assembly of Pennsylvania convene and work in Harrisburg.
The Pennsylvania’s General Assembly website has a list of members by district and their votes on bills.
What are Federal Representatives and Federal Senators?
Pennsylvania is separated into 17 Congressional districts, meaning the state of Pennsylvania has 17 Congresspeople and two Senators. Villanova’s campus is separated by two congressional districts represented by Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) and Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04). Villanovans will have the chance to re-elect these candidates for the House of Representatives or vote for the respective Republican candidates.
Federal Senators are up for reelection every six years. This year, incumbent (current sitting member), Bob Casey is up for re-election. Villanovans will have the chance to re-elect him or vote for the respective Republican candidate.
What else is on the ballot?
Attorney General and Auditor General are two other positions on the ballot. The Pennsylvania Department of the Auditor General is responsible for using audits to ensure taxpayer dollars are properly and legally spent. The Pennsylvania Attorney General is the primary law enforcement officer who oversees prosecution of organized crime and corruption. Villanovans can vote for both positions.
Does my vote count?
Yes, your vote counts and your voice is important. Voting in elections is an important way to participate in democracy and advocate for issues you are passionate about. You can vote in a variety of races for many different candidates. These candidates are going to enact laws and create change that can impact your everyday life.
What do these candidates believe in?
The Villanovan encourages students to do their research on candidates before casting their vote. Candidates’ legislative policies are easily displayed in their votes, social media posts and on their websites.
Also, consult this Linktree for more resources as discussed above and to learn more.
