Democrats Increasing Voter Registrations in Central Michigan

Our work is paying off.

According to a recent “Morning Sun” article, central Michigan is witnessing “hundreds” of new voter registrations, and most of them are young college students. This is primarily due to the work of the local Obama campaign field organizers Ted York and Chelsea Neblett, along with their army of volunteers. Alongside the Isabella County Democrats, the Obama campaign is making a huge impact in this area, that, no matter what happens, will drastically affect the Presidential race all the way down to our local races.

I’m one of those volunteers, and I’ve personally gone door to door to various apartment complexes, houses, and dorms with my friends over the summer and throughout the fall. I have met young people, including those who have never really been interested in politics, fired up to vote for the first time. I have met students who are supporting Obama, but lower their voices and say “please, don’t tell my parents.” I have met students who found out how they could get involved in the campaign only after we knocked on their doors, and later found themselves knocking on doors alongside us. I have also met some friendly (and not-so-friendly) McCain supporters. It’s been a very rewarding experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring out Obama supporters to the polls in my community.

Our goal is to register over 5,000 new voters before the Oct. 6th deadline. As of this posting we’re somewhere around the 2,000 mark. Regardless of whether we reach our goal or not, it’s already evident, based on this article, that our presence has been felt. For me, this campaign has been a once-in-lifetime experience.

Here is some important information to keep in mind regarding voter registration:

- If it is your first time voting, than you must show up to the polls in person. A valid ID is required.
- Parents will not lose their tax deduction for a dependent if they register in a different area. A dependent’s status has nothing to do with their address.
- Parents will not lose their auto insurance coverage on the vehicles their children take to college.