For A Pessimist I'm Pretty Optimistic

This cute platypus 

Look at the happiness of this dog after they put prostheses on him 

[Image description: tweet by Robert Reich @RBReich: “Georgians: If you turn 18 by January 5, 2021, you are eligible to vote in the run-off elections that will determine whether we take control of the Senate from Mitch McConnell. You have until December 7 to register to vote. Please tell your friends.”]

DIRECT LINK TO OFFICIAL GEORGIA GOV. REGISTRATION WEBSITE: https://registertovote.sos.ga.gov/GAOLVR/welcome.do#no-back-button

DIRECT LINK TO OFFICIAL GEORGIA GOV. REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS AND INFORMATION: https://sos.ga.gov/index.php/Elections/register_to_vote

It would be much easier to make policy on key issues like healthcare, LGBTQ rights, climate change, tax policy, immigration, and economic recovery. You want Biden to be able to pursue progressive policies? Control of the Senate would be a major boost.

Biden’s legislative and international agenda is majorly compromised if the Senate becomes a stalling point. Avoiding legislative gridlock is crucial to getting things done in general, and particularly to manage the pandemic and start undoing the damage Trump's administration has done.

The Senate confirms senior government appointees to the administration - this affects Biden’s ability to pick his Cabinet and appoint judges.

If the Democrats are able to gain control of all three offices, they can change the filibuster, making it much more difficult for Republicans to block measures.

The third time was, unfortunately, not a charm 

PSA to stay diligent with your 2020 vote

Please remember to do your own research, for your own state, for your own county, on whether voting in person or receiving your mail in ballot and dropping off in person is best for YOU.  Some counties may be heavily affected by mail delays, others may experience little to no delays.

Understand how your county has handled voting machines and paper trails in the past, and whether dropping off a paper ballet is more advantageous, or vice versa.

Register yourself

Register others

Most states allow early in-person voting!

If you can safely vote in person, vote in person.

If you don’t want to vote in person, most states allow mail-in or absentee! You do not have to mail-out your ballot, you can drop it off in person!

Do not panic and cancel your mail in ballot if that is your preferred method!

Constantly check your registration and encourage others to do the same

Vote as early as possible in your State

If you receive your ballot in the mail and want to avoid USPS uncertainty then drop off your ballot at a ballot drop off box or your local county elections office.

If you must return your ballot in the mail, the USPS recommends sending at least 1 week before Nov 3rd, but you should return it as early as you are possible to account for compounding USPS delays.

If you do not receive a ballot in the mail or you later change your mind to vote in person, then most states allow you to still vote in person!

Follow this guide to ensure the integrity of your vote and others, whether in-person or mail-in!

Become a paid poll worker! The Trump Campaign is recruiting 50,000 poll “monitors” across 15 key states to challenge people they think shouldn’t vote. Keep them honest!

Plan your vote here with detailed information on your state regarding whether you can vote by mail, vote early in person, and more.

Axios has also put together a quick reference of voting methods and dates by state.

Another comprehensive list was put together regarding voting dates and deadlines, absentee rules, and answers to other frequent questions voters have, all in one place. Mobile friendly view here.

And of course, continue to hold your reps and senators and state AG and the USPS board of governors’ feet to the fire!

Stay informed

Jennifer Cohn is an attorney and election integrity advocate, covering important developments and information to make your vote count.

Happy piggy