With the election right around the corner, many students may be searching for ways to become politically active inside and outside of school. Whether it’s phone banking, raising money or registering to vote, here is The UltraViolet’s guide to remaining politically engaged this election season.
Voter registration is one of the most important ways to become engaged, so to break down the process, we have outlined the steps required to register. However, keep in mind that certain states have different laws regarding registration and voting age. In California, you must register at least 15 days in advance, be a citizen
of the United States and be at least 18 years by Election Day to cast a vote.
There are two main ways to register. One option is registering online by filling out a registration form at RegisterToVote.ca.gov. You can also register by mail by following the instructions on the voter registration page on the California Secretary of State website. If you mail in your registration or register online, your application must be postmarked and submitted by Oct. 21.
Not yet 18? We talked to Siena Grouf ’25, co-leader of Marlborough’s Informed Electorate Club, to gain a better understanding of ways younger students can remain politically engaged in this election. If you are 16 years or older, you can complete the online voter pre-registration form to prepare for future elections in
which you will be able to participate. For more information regarding pre-registration, see the California Secretary of State website.
Grouf also explained that there are many opportunities within the Marlborough community to remain politically involved besides voting. The Informed Electorate Club meets after school every Friday to partake in phone banking, text banking and postcard writing to encourage voter turnout.
“Turnout is really important, and it’s pretty low in the United States,” Grouf said. “Get involved at Marlborough or outside of school by doing phone banking, text banking or raising money on your own.”
If you are looking for more ways to get involved this election season, you can email Grouf or visit the official California Secretary of State website for more details.
