July has always been one of my favorite months of the year. It’s a season of long summer days, family gatherings, vacations, and celebrating our nation’s independence. This year feels even more special as America marks its 250th anniversary, communities continue enjoying the excitement of the FIFA World Cup, baseball is in full swing, and families and kids begin preparing for a new school year.
Read more 🍦🚔 Charlie’s Ice Cream Talk with a Cop is back!
But this July also brings another important opportunity: making your plan to vote.
Recently, I had the privilege of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at a Miami Marlins game to help encourage voter registration ahead of the July 20 deadline for the August 18 Primary Election. I am grateful to the Marlins organization, President of Business Operations Caroline O’Connor, and the incredible fans for recognizing that America’s pastime is also a wonderful platform for promoting civic participation. Just as millions have been inspired by the passion and teamwork on display during the World Cup, sports remind us that preparation is the key to success.
The same is true for elections.
The best voting experience begins with a plan. Decide now how you will cast your ballot, whether by mail, during early voting, or at your polling place on Election Day. Review your sample ballot, now available on our website or later in the month right here inserted in Community Newspapers, so you can learn about the candidates and issues before you vote. If you prefer to receive your ballot and vote by mail, remember that the deadline to request one is August 6 at 5 p.m. Early voting will be available August 3 through August 16 at 23 convenient locations throughout Miami-Dade County, and secure ballot intake stations will be available at every early voting site for voters returning their vote-by-mail ballots if they prefer that way instead of US Mail.
Read more Miami-Dade Procurement Team Earns National Recognition While Delivering Major County Projects
Voting is one of the greatest privileges and responsibilities we share as Americans. As our nation celebrates 250 years of democracy, let us honor the generations that came before us—not only by celebrating our freedoms, but by exercising them.
This July, make your election plan. Make your voice heard. And on August 18, be sure to vote.
Read more Why Writers Need Community: Introducing the South Florida Writers Roundtable
Godspeed, and I look forward to seeing you at the polls.
Alina Garcia
Miami-Dade County Supervisor of Elections