ACOG to Celebrate National Voter Registration Day: September 20, 2022

Engaging in the electoral process is one of the most critical ways we can affect health care access, ensure elected representatives work to support our practices and our patients, and hold politicians accountable to evidence-based policies. That's why ACOG is committed to ensuring that the voices of the obstetrics and gynecology community are heard at the polls this year and that our members are inspired, informed, and empowered to get out the vote.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 8, 2022, which is right around the corner. National Voter Registration Day is the perfect time to not only double-check your voter registration but also set a plan in motion for how, when, and where you'll vote and start conversations with your colleagues and in your community about the importance of civic engagement.

Not sure where to start? We've compiled resources to help you check your registration status (it takes less than a minute!) and considerations to think through as you make your voting plan and spread the word.

Registering to vote:

• Are you registered to vote? You can confirm your registration status.
• Double-check—even if you think you’re registered, confirm!
• When is your registration deadline? Don’t wait to register, but be aware in case someone else asks!
• Can you vote early in your state, either in person or by mail?

Voting by mail (sometimes called absentee voting):

• Do you need to provide a reason to vote by mail, or are all residents eligible? Your state may have broadened this option because of COVID-19.
• Do you need to request a ballot, or does your state automatically send ballots to all voters?
• Confirm the process—once your ballot comes in the mail, will you mail it back, or is there an option to drop your ballot in a secure mail ballot drop box? 
• Start the process early! The U.S. Postal Service recommends mailing your ballot at least seven days before Election Day and requesting your ballot at least 15 days in advance. That's a minimum—don't cut it close!
• Follow instructions carefully. Don't let an accidental typo invalidate your ballot!

Voting in person, early:

• Can you vote early at a polling place?
• Where can you vote early? It may not be the same polling location you're used to.
• Does your state have ID requirements? If so, what are they?
• Can you vote early by dropping your ballot in a secure mail ballot drop box?

Voting in person, on Election Day:

• Does your state have ID requirements? If so, what are they?
• Where is your polling place? 
• When do polls open? When do they close?
• Think through logistics. What time of day will you vote? Where will you be coming from? What is your plan in case of a delay, such as a long line?
• Have you coordinated with your colleagues, your residency program, or your institution to ensure you and your colleagues have protected time?
• Are you a resident or a program director? Voting will be a collective effort—start early to develop your program's voting schedule, and make sure everyone has a plan to ensure coverage.

Now that you've made your voting plan, ACOG will continue to share resources leading up to the election for our members to spread the word. Keep your eye on ACOG Rounds and ACOG's social media channels to prepare and engage.

ACOG has long acknowledged the significant interplay between human rights—including the right to vote—and the overall health of individuals, their families, and their communities. We are proud to partner with our members across the country to make the voice of our specialty heard at the polls this November. Because when health care is on the ballot, #ACOGvotes.