Empowering Voters in Missouri and Kansas for the November Election

Updated on: October 12, 2024 8:57 am GMT

As we approach the significant 2024 presidential election, nearly 507,000 registered voters in Missouri find themselves classified as inactive. Understanding what this means and how to ensure your vote counts is vital for everyone in the state. If you are among this group or simply wish to ensure your voter registration is current, here are the essential details for casting your ballot this November.

Understanding Inactive Voter Status in Missouri

According to the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, there are currently 506,575 inactive voters in Missouri. This figure represents approximately 12% of all registered voters in the state. You might be labeled an inactive voter if:

• You have moved without providing the U.S. Postal Service with a forwarding address.
• You did not respond to a notice sent to you within 30 days.
• You did not cast a ballot in the 2022 midterm elections.

Being classified as inactive doesn’t prevent you from voting, but it does require that you verify your registration status and possibly update your information before you can participate in the upcoming election.

Key Voting Dates in Missouri

To successfully navigate the voting process and ensure your voice is heard in the 2024 election, keep these important dates in mind:

• Regular absentee voting begins: September 24
• Last day to register to vote: October 9
• Deadline for absentee ballot applications by mail: October 23, by 5 p.m.
• Deadline to request an absentee ballot in person: November 4, by 5 p.m.
• General Election Day: November 5

How to Verify Your Voter Registration

To confirm your voter registration status in Missouri, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Missouri Secretary of State’s website.
2. Use the voter registration portal to check if you are registered and if your details are correct.
3. If you have moved, changed your name, or find your status inactive, you will need to re-register.

You can also register or update your information in person at the county clerk’s office, at public libraries, or at a driver’s license office. The forms to register for the first time and to update your registration are the same.

What to Do if You Are Inactive

If you find out you are listed as inactive, here are the steps to follow:

• Re-register to vote online or in person to update your information.
• Respond to notifications sent by your local election authority.
• Ensure you participate in upcoming elections to maintain your active status.

Voting Options for the Upcoming Election

In Missouri, voters have several options for casting their ballots:

1. In-person voting: You can vote on Election Day at your designated polling place.
2. Absentee voting: If you prefer to vote early or cannot make it to the polls on Election Day, you can request an absentee ballot.
3. Mail-in voting: This option allows you to receive your ballot by mail and return it by the specified deadline.

Conclusion

The 2024 presidential election is coming up soon, and it’s really important for Missouri voters, especially those who haven’t voted in a while, to get ready. You should check if you are registered to vote, pay attention to deadlines, and learn about how you can vote. Getting prepared now will help make sure your voice is heard in this important election!