For the Tomahawk Leader
NORTHERN WISCONSIN – The League of Women Voters of the Northwoods (LWVNOW), earlier this month, re-launched its high school voter registration and education drive.
On Monday, March 4, members of LWVNOW visited Tomahawk, Rhinelander, Lakeland Union and Laona High Schools, where they spoke to 119 students and helped 58 18-year-olds register to vote.
A release from LWVNOW said the majority of students had a Wisconsin driver’s license, allowing for quick registration via www.vote.wi.gov, while other students mailed a paper registration form to their town clerks to complete the registration process.
Students were also shown how to use the MyVote website to find their polling places, their local clerks and the date of the next election.
“They learned they could also use that website to obtain an absentee ballot and know what issues and candidates will be on their ballot,” LWVNOW stated. “Additionally, it was explained what to do if and when the student has a change of address.”
League volunteers also showed younger students how to register to vote using MyVote when they turn 18 years of age.
“For students with cell phones, we suggested a reminder in their calendar app, ‘Happy 18th Birthday! Register to vote today,’” LWVNOW said.
The League said it plans to visit high schools to assist students with voter registration at least once more before the school year ends.
“The League’s objective is to motivate high school students to register to vote, cast their first vote and begin a lifelong habit of voting in every election,” LWVNOW stated. “For those eligible to register, that first vote could be as soon as the next election on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.”
About LWVNOW
The LWVNOW encompasses Florence, Forest, Langlade, Lincoln, Oneida and Vilas counties. The local league belongs to the state and national League of Women Voters, a “non-partisan organization devoted to helping members and fellow citizens develop educated political opinions and act upon them through the democratic process.” The league’s monthly meetings and sponsored events are open to all.
Contact the league by emailing [email protected] or visiting www.lwvnow.org.