As the 2020 election approaches, many voters in Fairfax County, VA may be wondering if they are still eligible to vote if they have moved within the county since registering. This is a valid concern, as voting laws and regulations can be confusing and vary from state to state. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question from an expert's perspective.
Understanding Voter Registration in Fairfax County, VA
Before we dive into whether or not you can still vote if you've moved within Fairfax County, let's first understand the basics of voter registration in the county. In order to vote in any election in Fairfax County, you must first register to vote.This can be done online, by mail, or in person at various locations throughout the county. Once you have registered to vote, your information is added to the county's voter registration database. This includes your name, address, and party affiliation. It is important to keep this information up-to-date in order to ensure that you are able to vote in all elections.
Moving Within Fairfax County
If you have recently moved within Fairfax County, you may be wondering if this will affect your ability to vote. The short answer is no, as long as you have updated your voter registration information with your new address. According to the Fairfax County Office of Elections, if you have moved within the county and have not updated your voter registration information, you will still be able to vote at your previous polling location.However, it is important to note that this may cause delays and complications on election day. In order to avoid any issues with voting, it is recommended that you update your voter registration information as soon as possible after moving within the county. This can be done online, by mail, or in person at various locations throughout the county.
Updating Your Voter Registration Information
Updating your voter registration information in Fairfax County is a simple process. If you have moved within the county, you can update your information online through the Virginia Department of Elections website. You will need to provide your new address, as well as your previous address and date of birth for verification purposes. If you prefer to update your information by mail, you can download a voter registration form from the Virginia Department of Elections website and mail it to the Fairfax County Office of Elections.You can also update your information in person at various locations throughout the county, such as the Department of Motor Vehicles or public libraries.
Important Deadlines
It is important to note that there are deadlines for updating your voter registration information in Fairfax County. In order to vote in an upcoming election, you must update your information at least 22 days before the election date. If you miss this deadline, you will not be able to vote in that particular election. Additionally, if you have moved within Fairfax County less than 30 days before an election, you may still be able to vote at your previous polling location. However, it is recommended that you update your information as soon as possible to avoid any complications on election day.Other Important Information
Aside from updating your voter registration information, there are a few other important things to keep in mind when it comes to voting in Fairfax County.First, make sure that you are registered with a political party if you wish to participate in their primary elections. In Virginia, voters do not register with a party when they register to vote, so it is important to make sure you are registered with the party of your choice. Additionally, if you are unable to vote in person on election day, you can request an absentee ballot. This can be done online or by mail, and must be done at least 11 days before the election date.
In Conclusion
In summary, if you have moved within Fairfax County since registering to vote, you are still eligible to vote in all elections as long as you update your voter registration information with your new address. This can be done online, by mail, or in person at various locations throughout the county.It is important to keep your information up-to-date in order to avoid any complications on election day. Remember, the deadline for updating your information is 22 days before an election, so make sure to do so in a timely manner. And if you are unable to vote in person on election day, you can request an absentee ballot. With this information in mind, you can confidently exercise your right to vote in Fairfax County, VA.