Keep your eyes open and your actions quick at your polling location.
We have all sat and waited a long time for tomorrow. Whether it be local, statewide, or federal issues, there are plenty of reasons to cast a ballot, activate others, participate in demonstrations, or monitor ICE agent activity.
Based on everything we know and have seen over the past few years, authoritarian power runs on vibes, and mis/disinformation can quickly fuel panic from official-looking orders with no legal force, all in the hopes that people self-censor before action has taken place.
Instead of shrinking your voice and actions, CLDC recommends the following:
Show up. Know your rights. Have a number to call. Election Day is tomorrow, November 3.
Here are six things you need to know before arriving at your polling location tomorrow.
- If you’re in line before polls close, do not leave. It is your right to cast a vote, and you can do so if you stand in line before polls officially close.
- Only election officials are allowed to ask questions. A common intimidation tactic is to question poll-goers outside of polling locations. You do not have to share your information with anyone but an election official. If it happens, tell a poll worker and call the Election Protection hotline: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683).
- Ask for a provisional ballot, even if you’re not on the list. If you believe you’re at the right polling place but you’re not listed, ask for a provisional ballot and do not leave without voting.
- Armed agents have no place at the polls. Federal law has long barred federal officials from stationing armed personnel at polling places, and armed groups and private militias have no business there either. We've watched this administration send the National Guard into Los Angeles, Minnesota, and Washington DC on manufactured "emergencies." If you see armed agents, troops, or militia at or near your polling place, report it. Call the Election Protection hotline: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683).
- Check before you film. You have the right to film, but each state has guidelines you must abide by. Call the Election Protection hotline: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683).
- If police stop you, say the following: "Am I being detained, or am I free to go?" If you're free, walk away calmly. "I do not consent to a search." Say it out loud. Don't physically resist. "I want a lawyer." Then stop talking. Keep your hands visible. Don't sign anything. Don't unlock your phone.
If you're arrested, call the Election Protection Hotline as soon as possible. If you have a friend present, tell them to call. In any case, say "I want a lawyer," then call 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683). Remember names and badge numbers, write down what happened as soon as you can, and don't talk about the situation with anyone but your lawyer.