Find out about the issues and candidates on the ballot, and where to vote.
On Election Day, millions of voters will go to the polls and cast their ballots for pro-small-business candidates. It is absolutely critical that everyone who is eligible to vote understands the process and can successfully protect their business at the ballot box. Every vote counts—and your vote can make the difference.
NFIB has prepared a short checklist of procedures you should consider before you cast your ballot in your state's primaries and on Tuesday, Nov. 2.
- Find Your Polling Place. Find your polling place or register to vote with our quick online tool.
- Review Incumbent Voting Records. NFIB monitors the small-business voting records of current U.S. representatives and senators, depicting how they voted on key issues impacting your business. Visit "How Congress Voted."
- Review NFIB Endorsements. NFIB is endorsing candidates who will stand up for small business owners and work to promote a pro-growth agenda. Reviewthe endorsements of NFIB's political action committee, the SAFE Trust.
- Review A Sample Ballot. If your state election office sends you a sample ballot, review it to see who you will be voting for and where they are located on the ballot. If you didn't receive a sample, contact your state election office to get more information about the candidates and issues that will be on the ballot.
- Get Your Ballot. If you know that you're registered to vote, but your name is not on the precinct roster, don't panic. Poll workers will either direct you to another polling place or explain how you can use a provisional ballot.
- Bring Identification. In some states, you might be required to bring a form of photo identification with you to vote. If you registered to vote by mail, or if it's your first time voting, you will need to show ID regardless of the state. A good rule of thumb is if you have a photo ID, bring it with you. If you don't have a photo ID, bring a current utility bill, paycheck or government document that shows your name and street address.
- Read the Directions. Locate the signs or pamphlets in your polling place that describe your voting rights and give instructions on operating the voting machine. Become familiar with them before you approach the area where the balloting takes place. In many states, a voting machine will be set up outside the voting area for you to practice casting your ballot.
- Have a Question? Ask! If you still have questions or don't feel totally comfortable with the voting procedures, be sure to ask for help. Poll workers are there to assist you and can answer any remaining questions you might have.
- Be Patient. Depending on the hour you arrive at your polling place, you may encounter long lines. The best time to vote is usually right before and after the noon lunch hour. If there are lines, don't leave without voting! The lines usually move quickly, and you'll leave knowing that your voice has been heard.
- Have a Complaint? If you believe that your voting rights have been infringed upon, speak to a poll worker about your concerns immediately. Do not leave the polling location without filing a complaint.