Today is Election Day. Here’s how I deal
Today is election day, and if you’re like me living in a swing state, you’re probably more than ready for a break from the ads, the texts, and the constant door-knocking. Even if you’re outside a swing state, you’re likely just as eager for it all to be over. Election seasons seem to grow longer with each cycle, and the intensity keeps climbing. It can feel overwhelming, and sometimes, it’s downright exhausting.
Here’s how I manage those emotions: I volunteer. I show up at my polling place before sunrise and help my neighbors exercise their right to vote.
The first time I volunteered, it was out of curiosity. I wanted to know what happens behind the scenes. How does the process work before and after I step into the voting booth? What safeguards are in place for privacy and accuracy? How do we ensure our elections are secure and fair? And, who makes all that chicken corn soup? I found the experience fascinating. I learned the answers to my questions and walked away with a deep appreciation for the process and the dedicated people involved. Being there in person gave me firsthand knowledge that strengthened my trust in the system.
But what surprised me most was how much fun I had. I met neighbors from down the street, reconnected with people I hadn’t seen in a while, and even celebrated with first-time voters casting their ballots at 18. It was unexpectedly rewarding to connect with others and to see the shared sense of purpose and community that election day fosters. Polling places bring together people from all walks of life, uniting us in a common goal and giving everyone a place to belong.
In a world filled with big challenges, small, local actions often make the biggest impact on our everyday lives. Local elections affect issues close to home, from school funding to public parks and road improvements. Whether trash gets collected, streets stay lit, or snow gets cleared are all decisions influenced at the local level. And while polling places can feel intimidating for some, especially for first-time voters, new residents, or anyone unfamiliar with the process, volunteers make these spaces welcoming and inclusive, showing each person that their voice matters and that they belong.
When you help others vote, you’re helping shape your community’s day-to-day experiences. You get to see the impact of your contribution firsthand as people leave the polls knowing they’ve made a difference. Volunteering at the polls isn’t just about election day—it’s about creating the kind of community we’re all proud to call home. I encourage you to give it a try! You can even volunteer for a half-day shift, like I do. And if you’re in Cumberland County, here’s the link to sign up: Become a Poll Worker.
