Virginia is for Voters

Virginia Gov. Timothy M. Kaine today encouraged Virginians to check their voter registration status, reminding voters that the deadline to register is October 6th. The governor encouraged Virginians to take advantage of a State Board of Elections Web tool to confirm their registration status, polling location, and other vital information ahead of the fall elections.

"By taking a few minutes to use this simple tool, Virginia voters can make sure they aren't turned away on Election Day because they show up at the wrong precinct, have inaccurate voter information or are not registered to vote by the October 6th deadline," Kaine said. "With more than 4.8 million registered voters in the commonwealth, our general registrars and electoral boards need the assistance of the general public to make the election experience a positive one."

Virginia residents can check their voter registration status in two ways:

• By visiting the election Web site and clicking on the "Check Voter Registration Status" link.
• By calling (804) 864-8901 or (800) 552-9745. Staff and volunteers answer phones at the Virginia State Board of Election Voter Registration Call Center from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 pm.
• By calling their local registrar. Contact information for registrars is available in the blue pages of the phone book.

Kaine also announced that the State Board of Elections has nearly reached its goal of identifying 10,000 people to serve as officers of election, statewide -- less than 50 additional officers are still needed. An increased need for officers of elections stemmed from the creation of 300 precincts since 2004 and the projected increase in voter turnout for the November election. The primary purpose for these officers of elections is to assist voters on Election Day.

Those interested in serving as an officer of election should visit the Virginia State Board of Elections Web site.