KILLEEN, TX — September 24 marks National Voter Registration day. In preparation, many Americans took advantage of the occasion to ensure they can perform their civic duty.
“We all need to be a part of making change happen, and if we don’t get out and vote, then our voices can’t be heard,” said Sianna Taylor-Cain, a student at A&M Central Texas who registered to vote.
Dozens of students at A&M Central Texas took a few minutes out of their day to register, or check to ensure. The university hosted an event to help get students squared away.
“I felt that it’s a responsibility with my citizens to do so, because if we don’t do so who is going to vote,” said Utofa Sberojack, a student at A&M Central Texas.
Off-year elections historically have low turnouts.
“In 2018, people were really excited with 46% turnout. We want to repeat that again. Usually it’s something between the 20-30% range in 2014. So it’s really important for the people to go out and vote because the opportunity doesn’t come that often and it really is on issues that impact us,” said John Koehler, a professor at A&M Central Texas.
Campaigns like this one aim to keep numbers high.
“The goal is to continually work toward getting students registered to vote, getting them engaged,” said Paul York, Associate Dean of Student Affairs at A&M Central Texas.
The deadline to register is fast approaching. Voters can register in-person thirty days before election day, or by mail postmarked before that thirty day mark.
“You gotta make sure you do it early, because that deadline in October's going to come, and you’re not going to be able to vote on Election Day if you’re not pre-registered,” said Koehler.
