The United States is a democratic republic, and it is essential that as many citizens vote as possible. This active participation is vital for a democracy to represent the collective “voice” of a country and to reflect the saying, “for the people, by the people.”

One population that does not typically vote is college students.

Although college student voting did rise from 19% to 40% over the period of 2014 to 2018, 40% does not represent the majority of college students. And of college student voters, students at public two-year colleges were the least likely to vote (37.8%).

In order for the United States democracy to fully represent college students, the voices of its college students must be heard. Education is essential in helping college students understand how to properly vote for a candidate that represents their personal views.

St. Charles Community College encourages students to educate themselves on candidates and related issues to prepare for the upcoming Missouri presidential primary election from 6 a.m.-7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10.

To help students, SCC wants to provide information and non-partisan candidate guides to help narrow down their choice(s).

Suggested steps to take to vote in the presidential primary:

  1. Students must be registered to vote. The last day to register to vote is Wednesday, Feb. 12. You can register online with a mobile device, tablet or other touchscreen device, or you can print and mail the application form to your county clerk's office (address on the form). You can register in person at your county clerk's office or a local DMV office, a library or a designated state office. You can also request online that a registration application be mailed to you. All mailed applications must be postmarked by Feb. 12. If you register in person, you're required to present personal ID, such as your driver's license number and Social Security card.
  2. Research the candidates. CNN has information on the 2020 presidential candidates. Politico has a guide on the Democratic candidates.
  3. Determine who you will vote for.
  4. Determine where you will vote.
  5. Carve time out of your schedule on March 10 to vote. Voting is open from 6 a.m.-7 p.m. on that day.
    1. If you are not able to make the March 10 date, you will need to vote absentee. The deadline for requesting an absentee ballot is 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 26. You can vote absentee until 5 p.m. Monday, March 9.

For more information, we recommend the following links: