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Editorial
Don't let details keep you from casting your vote
Monday, May 12, 2014
Elections are a vital part of our system of government, but it's unfortunate when they deteriorate into the late mud-slinging attacks that have marked the final days going into tomorrow's vote.
While we may be tired of the negativity, it's important that we don't let that stop us from writing off our responsibilities entirely.
All the debates, phone calls and advertising won't mean a thing if voters don't exercise their power at the polls.
Secretary of State John Gale offers the following practical tips to make Tuesday's election day go smoothly:
* Check your voter registration and polling place. Call your county clerk or visit https://www.votercheck.necvr.ne.gov/ . That's the same place to check on your early voting ballot or provisional ballot.
* Change of address: If you've moved within a county (out of your former precinct) and not updated your registration, go to the polling place for where you live now to cast a provisional ballot. Check your address at https://www.vtercheck.necvr.ne.gov/ .
* Check your sample ballot from the Gazette, mark and take it to the polling place with you.
* Turn off your cell phones, smart phones and other electronic devices.
* Leave campaign items such as buttons, stickers and T-shirts at home. It is illegal to campaign within 200 feet of a polling site.
* Proper identification may be required at the polling place if you are newly registered by mail and haven't voted in Nebraska yet or provided identification with your application.
* Nonpartisan voters will receive the nonpartisan ballot, In addition, they may request a Republican party ballot for the U.S. Senate and House races, or a full Democratic or Libertarian Party ballot.
* Today was the last day to cast an early voting ballot at the county election office. All mailed early ballots must be received by the close of polls on election day. They may drop off their early voting ballot on election day at the county election office. They will not be accepted at the polling place.
* Voters who forget to return their early voting ballot may vote provisionally at the polls on election day with a provisional ballot. It will be counted once it is confirmed that no other ballots have been cast for that particular voter.
Polls are open on election day from 8 a.m. CDT and 7 a.m. MDT to 8 p.m. CDT and 7 p.m. MDT.
Unofficial election results for statewide races will be posted starting at 8 p.m. CDT on the main page of the secretary of state's website, (http://www.sos.ne.gov)
Like any right, voting is a use-it-or-lose-it proposition.