As an expert on the electoral process in Deschutes County, Oregon, I have encountered many individuals who are unsure about how to register to vote as an unaffiliated individual. With the 2020 election fast approaching, it is important for everyone to understand their options when it comes to voter registration. In this article, I will guide you through the steps and requirements for registering to vote as an unaffiliated individual in Deschutes County.
The Role of Political Parties in Deschutes County
Before we dive into the voter registration process, it is crucial to understand the role of political parties in Deschutes County. Like many other counties in Oregon, Deschutes County has a strong two-party system dominated by the Democratic and Republican parties.These parties hold significant influence in shaping local and state politics, from candidate endorsements to ballot measures. However, not everyone identifies with the beliefs and values of these two major parties. Some individuals may feel that their political views do not align with either party, while others may simply prefer to remain unaffiliated. Whatever your reason may be, it is important to know your options when it comes to voter registration.
The Voter Registration Process for Unaffiliated Individuals
In Deschutes County, registering to vote as an unaffiliated individual is a straightforward process. The first step is to obtain a voter registration form.You can do this online through the Oregon Secretary of State's website or by picking up a paper form at various locations throughout the county, such as libraries and government offices. Once you have your registration form, you will need to fill it out completely and accurately. This includes providing your full name, date of birth, address, and other personal information. You will also need to select the "unaffiliated" option to indicate that you do not wish to affiliate with a specific political party. After completing the form, you can submit it by mail or in person at the Deschutes County Clerk's office. If you choose to mail in your form, make sure to do so at least 21 days before the election to ensure that it is received and processed in time.
If you prefer to submit your form in person, you have until 8:00pm on Election Day to do so.
Important Considerations for Unaffiliated Voters
While registering to vote as an unaffiliated individual in Deschutes County is relatively simple, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, unaffiliated voters are not eligible to participate in primary elections. This means that you will not be able to vote for candidates in the Democratic or Republican primaries. However, unaffiliated voters can still participate in general elections and vote on ballot measures. In fact, some may argue that being unaffiliated allows for a more objective and independent approach to voting on issues and candidates. Another important consideration is that unaffiliated voters may receive less political mail and advertisements compared to those who are registered with a specific party.This is because political parties often target their messaging towards their own members. While this may be seen as a positive for some, others may feel left out of the political conversation.
Changing Your Party Affiliation
If you are currently registered as an unaffiliated voter but wish to change your party affiliation, you can do so at any time. Simply fill out a new voter registration form and select the party of your choice. However, keep in mind that if you change your party affiliation within 21 days of an election, you will not be able to vote in that election for your new party.Final Thoughts
The voter registration process for unaffiliated individuals in Deschutes County is relatively simple and straightforward.By understanding the role of political parties in the county and the options available for unaffiliated voters, individuals can make informed decisions about their participation in the democratic process. Whether you choose to remain unaffiliated or decide to change your party affiliation, exercising your right to vote is an important way to make your voice heard in local and state politics.
