If the Twitter photos of lines snaking around city blocks are any indication, people are showing up to vote in droves. And while the high voter turnout is a great example of democracy in action, it spells bad news for voter wait times. So, what do you do if you’re stuck at the back of the line when your polling place closes? You stay right where you are.
If you didn’t take advantage of your state’s voting time-off laws to cast your ballot during the workday, there’s a good chance you’ll be caught in an after-work crush. But don’t despair! As long as you are in line at closing time, you have a legal right to vote—so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. In fact, if someone does attempt to force you to leave, you are encouraged to call a voter protection hotline (such as 1-866-OUR-VOTE) or submit a complaint to the Department of Justice (1-800-253-3931).
These hotlines are also available to help you if you witness acts of voter intimidation or discrimination. As they say, if you see something, say something!
November 8, 2016 – 4:45pm