The Social Principles of The United Methodist Church assert that, “The strength of a political system depends upon the full and willing participation of its citizens.” An essential part of this participation includes voting in free and fair elections.

On Tuesday, Nov. 3, Americans will go to their polling places to cast their ballots. This year, because of the coronavirus pandemic, many will choose to use mail-in ballots. In the 2020 primary elections, the Washington Post reported, more than 534,000 mail ballots were rejected because of missed delivery deadlines, inadvertent mistakes and uneven enforcement of rules.

As people of faith, assuring that all people’s voices are heard and counted is a vital component of our social witness.

The following state election office websites have important information you’ll want to share with your congregation, including information on how to, register to vote, request a mail-in ballot, voter look-up, rumor control, and FAQs.

• Vote Safe – DC Board of Elections 
• Maryland Board of Elections 
• West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner – Elections Division 
• Vote.gov

Voter registration events are also being held at several United Methodist churches.