38 days.

As in how many days until we vote and all eligible should exercise that right. 

But in many state “early voting” already started (In New York State early voting for 2024 runs October 26 through November 3.) 

I’ve long advocated voting; it really matters. Those who follow the main act election this year will note all the polls and prognostications. What polls cannot measure is actual turnout. That is where voting comes in. Pollsters employ models of the electorate that infuse their results. I prefer to see electoral outcomes that reflect the choices of every eligible vote. That means registering all eligible and making it easy to cast one’s vote.

It reflects my support for instants voter registration at poll-sites, extending voting hours (Early voting is a start.) and making Election Day a national holiday. I also like extended voting by mail.

As I wrote four years ago, "Add to that online voting – the technology exists! Think about on-line banking and other secure on-line activity we engage in, including driver’s license renewals."

Voting made easy should induce more informed voting and voters; I’d like to think better electoral outcomes follow a better informed electorate. As to the outcome November 5 (or thereafter since counting might take longer), my annual post election talk occurs November 13 (Email Lisa Waterman if you want to join us.).

In New York you can apply for an “Absentee ballot” by mail through October 26 and in person through Nov 4 (as in the day before this year’s Election Day).

In New York, the last day to postmark an absentee ballot (called a mail in ballot in many other jurisdictions) is this year’s Election Day, Tuesday, November 5. Mail-in ballots must be received (this year) by November 12.

This year the last day to “deliver” an absentee ballot is Election Day to the county board of election or your poll-site.

Register to vote at NYS Board of Elections website. 

Last year, I did not remind folks to the Sunday before; I hope this earlier commentary this election years spurs some discussion and more.