Voter registration deadline on the way as election day nears

The deadline to register to vote online is just before midnight October 22nd.

That’s the latest you can register before you’ll need to fill out a “conditional” ballot to vote in this year’s election.

“That conditional voter registration and conditional provisional ballot process does have to take place at our office,” says Monterey County Elections staff member, Gina Martinez. “Not at a polling place. They can come in our office and it includes election day until 8 pm.”

Should you miss the deadline this evening and have to fill out a conditional ballot, an extra step is required to have your vote count next month.

Staff will have to verify your voting eligibility and will also check to make sure you haven’t voted anywhere else in California.

Residents say they know whats at stake with midterm elections and hope candidates elected will address the concerns they have with issues on the national, state and local level.

“The rent is so expensive and the housing is not what it should be, says Salinas Resident Carol Martin. “Landlords can be so slummy or not fix anything.”

Martin also talks about city infrastructure, both of which are introduced in some way as measured on the ballot next month.

No matter the issue, there’s some validity, but at this point it’s just a matter of registering and getting out to vote.

Monterey County residents can register to vote today until 5 pm at the county elections office.

You can also register to vote online at www.registertovote.ca.gov