This primary season, who will you vote for? Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders? Donald Trump or the yet to be decided Republican frontrunner?
In less than a month, the presidential primaries will take over Arizona politics, paving the way for upcoming general elections this fall.
Presidential primaries narrow each party down to a sole candidate who will act as an overarching representative for the party during the upcoming general election.
However, in order to narrow candidates to the two most representative politicians, eligible voters need to vote. The official Arizona primary date is March 22, but those interested in voting need to register by Feb. 22.
According to the Arizona Secretary of State Office’s voter registration data, only 23 percent of those registered in the state voted in the 2008 primary elections — in contrast with a 78 percent turnout for the 2008 general election.
Arizona has closed primaries. What does that mean? In order to vote for a member of a Republican or Democratic party, one must be registered under that specific party.
Still need to register? Here’s how:
1. Arizona Resident registering online:
To register online, visit the Arizona Department of Transportation's Service Arizona website.
To fulfill the online requirements, you will need to provide your full name, address and social security number. A valid Arizona state ID or license is also required.
2. Arizona Resident registering via mail or in person:
To register in person, visit your local DMV. Bring a valid state ID or be prepared to show your passport or your birth certificate.
Voters who register in person or via mail also need to have completed a voter registration form.
All mailed registration forms must be sent to the eligible voter's local County Recorder office.
3. Non-Arizona Resident:
To register to vote outside of Arizona, either register directly online or send a National Mail Voter Registration form to your state's election office.
As of 2016, 23 states offer online registration for those away from their state at election time. However, the deadline for primary registrations vary from state to state. Be sure to verify when your information is due.
Related Links:
Arizona voter registration leaps by 47,000
A national campaign for voter awareness
Reach the news editor at aplante@asu.edu or follow @aimeenplante on Twitter
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