Why are Kamala Harris’ poll numbers rising? Here’s what we know now.
Kamala Harris has seen rising poll numbers since she entered the presidential race. But what voter structure is responsible for this? Here’s what we now know.
Without an official ID, you can hardly do anything, not even in the election in November.
With the 2024 election still three months away, some Texans may have trouble getting an ID.
In Texas, voters must show a government-issued photo ID at the polling place, but limited appointment availability at Central Texas DPS offices makes it nearly impossible to obtain this ID.
For some, it’s the first year they’ve been eligible to vote. Others just need to renew their ID, but making an appointment in their city is a task. The Texas DPS encourages people to find appointments in other cities, but that can be daunting for those who don’t have the means to travel.
There is an alternative for Texans who do not have identification in time to vote.
What is the Declaration of Reasonable Impediment Form?
A Declaration of Reasonable Impediment to Voting form is a legal document used when a voter is unable to present a required government-issued photo identification at the polling place due to a reasonable disability.
If you are registered to vote, the Reasonable Impediment Declaration form can help you vote.
A document must still be brought along. Your voter registration certificate, which will be sent to you by your local voter registration office, is ideal. Alternatively, you can bring one of the following documents: your birth certificate, a recent utility bill or bank statement with your name on it, a government check, or a paycheck.
If you encounter difficulties at the polling place: Call or text 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683), the hotline managed by nonpartisan voting activists, to speak with a trained volunteer who can explain the law and your options.
Bridget Grumet: Texans have to wait months for the ID they need to vote. But there is another way.
How do I fill out the form to declare a justified obstacle?
At the polling place, request a declaration of valid obstacles form. You tick the box explaining why you do not have photo ID. Possible reasons include lack of transportation, loss or theft of the ID, or work or family obligations.
Will my vote be counted if I submit a justified reason for absence form?
You are participating in a regular vote and your vote counts. Voters who complete a form declaring a reasonable impediment to voting will receive a standard ballot, not a provisional ballot.
By when do I have to register to vote?
The deadline for in-person and mail-in voting in the Texas election on November 5 is October 7.
I can’t find my voter registration certificate. Can I get a new one?
You can have a replacement voter registration card mailed to you by contacting your local voter registration office.
Here’s how you can contact the election offices in the following counties and get help replacing your voter registration certificate.
- Travis County: Call the Office of the Tax Collector and Registrar of Voters at 512-854-9473, email [email protected], or visit the main tax office at 2433 Ridgepoint Drive to obtain a replacement certificate in person.
- Williamson County: Call 512-943-1630 or email [email protected].
- Hays County: Call 512-393-7310 or email [email protected].
- Bastrop County: Call 512-581-7160 or email [email protected].
- Dallas County: Call (469) 627-VOTE (8683) or email [email protected]
- County Tarrant: Call 817-831-8683 or email [email protected]
- Harris County: Call 713-755-6965 or email [email protected]
- Bexar County: Call 210-335-VOTE (8683) or email [email protected]
— American-Statesman columnist Bridget Grumet contributed to this report.
