Practice Tip of the Week | Early Voting

By Serena Bumpus, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, and Kanaka Sathasivan, MPH

When nurses save lives every day, voting can seem like a minor way to contribute. However, every vote cast affects health care, the wellbeing of Texans and the amount of attention nursing issues get during the legislative session. In 2018, 1 in every 45 registered voters was a nurse. From the social determinants of health, to nursing education funding, to COVID-19 personal protective equipment distribution — your vote will affect the landscape of Texas for years to come.

Today, October 13, is the first day of early voting in Texas. Now, more than ever, nurses should uphold their civic duty and engage in the voting process. Voting is one of the biggest ways your voice can be heard.

The Voting Process

For many of you, this may be your first time engaging in the voting process. You are not alone! There will be many “firsts” in the 2020 election. Before heading to the polls, here are a few tips to help make your experience a positive one:

1. Research the candidates running for office, political parties and ballot initiatives. You can do this by visiting websites like Vote411 , votesmart, isidewith, factcheck and League of Women Voters of Texas to see which candidates best match your beliefs on certain issues. You can also check political party websites to help you understand their priorities. An informed voter makes an informed choice.
2. Understand the Rules and Regulations
   1. Texas early voting is October 13-October 30. Election Day is November 3^rd.
   2. In Texas, an employer may not refuse an employee time off to vote. The only exception is if the employee has two consecutive non-work hours available while polls are open.
   3. Bring identification with you. All Texas voters must show a valid photo ID issued by the State of Texas or the federal government. Acceptable forms of ID include:
      • a Texas driver license
      • a Texas state ID card
      • a Texas election identification card
      • a Texas handgun license
      • a US military ID
      • a US passport
      • a US citizenship certificate that contains your photo.

      If you do not have an acceptable voter ID, you will be required to sign an affidavit and show an official document that shows your name and Texas address. Acceptable documents include a bank statement, utility bill, paycheck, residential lease or any government document that shows your name and home address.

3. Find your polling place. During the early voting period, you may vote at any polling location within the county you reside. On election day, you will need to vote at your designated polling place. You can find your county polling locations for early voting and designated polling place on election day here.
4. Cast your ballot. When you arrive at your polling location, you will be asked to show your photo ID. The election worker will locate your name on the voter registration list. They will ask you to sign your name and hand you a ballot. You will be escorted to a voting booth where you will privately vote for your preferred candidate. Once completed, you will take your ballot to the designated area and place it in the black box. Some areas have electronic voting booths where the entire process will be completed.

Allow yourself plenty of time on the day you plan to cast your ballot. Many counties will post their polling location wait times on their websites .

Nurse Political Advocacy

Remember, nurses have long been involved in voting initiatives across the nation. In Texas, nurses were one of the first seven groups to fight for woman’s suffrage. Helen Edmunds Moore, a nurse in Texas City, not only provided the only medical care to the residents before 1907, but also found the time to advocate for suffrage. Her efforts paid off in 1918, and she went on to become the president of the League of Women Voters of Texas and then a member of the House in the 41^st Texas Legislature.

In addition, TNA does not endorse specific candidates. We believe you should vote for candidates who align with your own personal values and beliefs. The Texas Nurse PAC supports candidates on both sides of the aisle. This year, member contributions have supported 42 candidates who advocate for nursing and health care: six senate republicans, four senate democrats, 16 house republicans and 16 house democrats. Last year, 87% of the candidates supported by the PAC went on to win their races!

Your vote makes a difference. Make your voting plan. Help your loved ones make a plan. And make your voice heard this election season!