By Senator Tom Brewer
Our 2024 general election is only a few short days away. Nebraska ballots during this election contain choices between a number of federal and state candidates. These electoral contests include the races for president, both of Nebraska’s federal senators, all three congressional representatives, dozens of state legislative races, the State Board of Education, and Public Service Commission. We also have a number of local races like natural resource districts, community college boards, and county board seats, as well as retention votes on local judges.
Just as important as the votes on who occupies various government offices, voters will also have the opportunity to speak on a number of state and local ballot questions. Statewide initiatives and referenda on abortion, school choice, marijuana, and paid sick leave will be decided. Many voters will have the opportunity to be heard on proposed local bond issues that will impact their property taxes.
It is an understatement to say that this election will make history for our Nebraska communities and for our nation. Many Nebraskans have already voted and returned their early ballots. For those who have not yet voted, early mail-in ballots can be requested up until 6:00pm on October 25th, and voters can cast their early, in-person vote at their local county election offices up until November 4th. Of course, many voters strongly prefer to vote in-person on Election Day, which will fall on November 5th this year.
To participate in this election, a Nebraska citizen must properly register to vote and must possess an acceptable form of photo identification. Online and mail-in voter registration has already closed, but in-person registration at county election offices is still available until 6:00pm on October 25th. Most voters will use a Nebraska driver’s license or state identification card to vote, but other forms of photo ID are also allowed, including military IDs, and passports. Free ID documents are available from the DMV for those who cannot afford them. For voters who are in a hospital, nursing home, or assisted living facility, the facility’s identification records will suffice.
You can review a comprehensive guide to Nebraska voter ID online at sos.nebraska.gov/elections/voter-id
I have worked over my eight years on the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee to improve our elections. I believe we have done so every year. All that work does not count for much if Nebraskans do not get out and vote. I encourage every eligible voter to do so. Our state and our nation need you.
Please contact my office with any comments, questions or concerns. Email me at; tbrewer@leg.ne.gov. Mail a letter to; Sen. Tom Brewer, Room #1202, P.O. Box 94604, Lincoln, NE 68509 or call us at (402) 471-2628.