Each year in September we celebrate National Voter Registration Day, a celebration of democracy aimed at making sure no Americans miss the opportunity to vote on election day because they aren’t registered.
“We celebrate that every day here at the Marion County Supervisor of Elections office,” declares Marion County Supervisor of Elections Wesley Wilcox, adding that nonpartisan voter education is provided year-round within our schools and community to register eligible Marion County citizens and encourage voter participation.
Why Vote?
“Democracy is a participation sport,” Wilcox relays. “As with every sport, the more participation the better.”
Wilcox believes that voting is a privilege, made possible by the service and sacrifice of the men and women who fought and continue to fight to defend our freedoms. Throughout the year, the elections center staff teaches young people that citizens have the power to influence government by voting, and that by choosing not to vote, you allow someone else’s vote to hold more power. Your one vote could be the deciding factor on the candidate or issue that will affect you, they explain. That’s why it is important to vote in every eligible election.
How to Register to Vote
Are you sure you are registered to vote? Make sure you’re registered and update your record if your name, address, signature or other information has changed.
› Online at www.RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov
› In person at the Election Center, 981 NE 16th St,, Ocala.
After you register, you will receive a voter information card in the mail that contains your registration information, voting location and district.
The Primary
Florida is a closed primary state. That means, in order to vote in the primary election, you must be registered and declare your political party affiliation 29 days before the election. In a primary election, all registered voters, regardless of party affiliation, may vote on issues and nonpartisan races, but only voters who are registered members of political parties may vote for their respective party candidates for an office.
How To Vote
As a registered Marion County voter, you may choose to cast your ballot one of three ways: Vote by Mail, Early Voting or on Election Day. The next countywide election is the March 16, 2020 Presidential Preference Primary Election. You will need 
to provide a current and valid form of photo and signature identification before receiving a ballot. You can request a mail ballot, view a map of early voting sites, find your voting location, view election dates and deadlines and more by visiting www.VoteMarion.com.
Want To Help?
Elections wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated election workers that staff the polling places on election day. Are you interested in becoming an integral part of the elections process and getting paid to serve your community? Apply to join the election worker team at www.VoteMarion.com. You must be a registered voter in Marion County to apply.
For More Information:
Website: VoteMarion.com
Facebook: /MarionCountySOE
Twitter: @VoteMarion
Instagram: @VoteMarion
#VoteMarion
