Jaiden Smith
Managing Editor
The 2024 Presidential elections are fast approaching and for first-time voters, there are some important facts to keep in mind when preparing to vote for the big election this November.
The League of Women Voters gives these tips to advise first-time voters.
Register: Of course, you must be registered to vote. With a quick Google search, you can either register or find a location to become a registered voter. You can also visit VOTE411.org.
Find your polling location: Fortunately for Jackson State students the polling location is right here on campus, normally in the Student Center. So there is no need to leave campus to cast your vote.
Vote 411.org also suggests the following for first-time voters:
Explore Early Voting Options: This is especially important for students who are registered in their home states. Many states offer absentee, mail-in voting or in person early voting options.
In Mississippi, absentee voting is available if you meet any of the criteria found at https://www.vote411.org/mississippi. The last day to request an absentee ballot is 5 days before the election. You can return your absentee ballot request form through the mail or in person. Voted ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received up to 5 days after the election in order to be counted.
Research the Candidates: The right to vote is an honor and should be taken seriously. Conducting thorough research of candidates can ensure you’re making the best vote for yourself and the future of our country. It seems easiest to follow along with social media and vote for who the media is in favor of but also conduct your own research. It can be overwhelming but it’s extremely important to ensure the candidate you chose aligns with your interests.
You can visit studentvote.org to register and also check out projectvote.org or campusvoteproject.org to educate yourself on why your vote matters and how to properly protect and exercise your right.
The NAACP chapter of Jackson State University has made it their personal mission to push students to vote by making resources more accessible for students.
Khalilah Karriem, a sophomore political science major from Columbus, Miss., currently serves as the NAACP Youth and College Political Action Chair and is enthusiastic about her organizations plans for the upcoming election.
“Our committee is dedicated to empowering individuals through civic engagement,” stated Karriem.
“To achieve this, we are orchestrating a comprehensive voter registration drive. During this event, participants will have the opportunity not only to familiarize themselves with the candidates on the upcoming ballot but also to register to vote if they haven’t already done so. Our aim is to foster an informed electorate and encourage active participation in the democratic process for a stronger and more representative community,” said Karriem.
Karriem is aware that the majority of voters on campus are first time voters and she encourages students to not shy away no matter how intimidating voting can be.
“I’d first like to say congratulations on actively engaging in the democratic process and aspiring to make a positive impact within your community. It’s crucial to begin by thoroughly researching the candidates on the ballot. Understand their platforms and ensure that their values align with the positive change you envision for your community. Voting with a clear understanding and alignment with your values is essential, as your vote significantly impacts whether your chosen candidate secures victory. Be mindful that your vote is a powerful tool in shaping the direction of representation and governance in your community,” stated Karriem.
If you have any questions about the election, you can grab any member of NAACP and they’ll be happy to answer. Their main goal is to encourage our campus and eliminate any unnecessary factors that would come from voting.
“I want to emphasize that your vote truly matters. In a presidential election, the winner sets the tone for how our country is governed,” Karriem explains.
“Countless individuals in marginalized communities fought for the right to vote, and it’s crucial that we honor their legacy by actively exercising this right. Taking our voting privilege for granted may put it at risk. Advocacy begins with us, and voting is the initial step to speak up on
the issues we face. Be the voice for positive change by casting your vote and actively participating in shaping our collective future.”
Denesia Griffin, a junior from Chicago, Ill. said this will be her first time voting in a presidential election. The business administration major said she plans on participating in the 2024 election.
“I feel like when voting you should know what both parties bring to the table. Also, vote on which party you feel like will make a good impact.”
Griffin is well versed on the importance of voting and plans on doing research to properly select a candidate and encourages her peers to do the same.
The elections take place Nov. 5, 2024, see you at the polls Tigers!
