Minnesotans excel at a lot of things. But what’s one thing that we’re the very best at? Voting.

Minnesota consistently ranks #1 in voter turnout. That’s no accident. Our progressive state leaders worked hard to make our elections secure and accessible. That way, all Minnesota voters can make their voice heard.

But our high voter turnout might not be possible if conservatives get their way and end same-day voter registration. 

What is same-day voter registration?

This year, Election Day is November 2. In many states, if you’re not already registered to vote, you’re out of luck. But here in Minnesota, you can still cast your ballot thanks to same-day voter registration. 

If you’re not registered, all you have to do is go to your polling place with proof of residence. That could be your Minnesota State ID with your current address, or another photo ID plus a utility bill or lease agreement with your current address on it. If you don’t have either of those, a household member or neighbor who is registered in your precinct can vouch for you. Click here for information about what you need to register on Election Day. 

This allows more Minnesotans to cast their ballots.

For example, if you’re a college student living away from home, you can register and vote on Election Day using your student ID and student fee statement. Or, if you live in a homeless shelter or another residential facility and don’t have a current State ID, a staff person can vouch for you.

That’s a good thing. Our elections are better when they represent the will of all Minnesota voters, not just a few.

Conservatives are trying to take it away

Once again, conservatives are spreading misinformation and scare tactics to try to disenfranchise Minnesota voters. One of the ways they’re doing that is by attempting to end same-day voter registration.

This year, Minnesota Senate conservatives put forth a budget bill with several anti-voter measures. If these measures pass, that would likely mean saying goodbye to our top spot in voter turnout. 

It’s pretty sketchy that conservatives keep trying to create elections where fewer Minnesotans vote. Not to mention wrong. 

We can’t let that happen

Without same-day voter registration, our elections would suffer. Fewer people casting their ballots would lead to poorer representation at all levels of government. Luckily, our progressive leaders are fighting to protect the secure, accessible elections that Minnesotans enjoy.

Make sure you have a plan to vote on Tuesday, November 2. And don’t forget to share this post to make sure your friends and family vote, too. Even if they’re not registered yet!