We’ve got less than 3 weeks left in this election season—it’s time to get out and vote! But before you head to the polls, take a moment to look over your ballot and familiarize yourself with the races beyond just the presidential one. From local offices to critical state races, these decisions will have a big impact on your community.
Understanding what’s on your ballot ahead of time will make your voting experience smoother and ensure you’re ready to make informed choices. There’s a lot to consider, but don’t worry—let’s simplify things a bit.
Step 1: Pick Your Voting Date and Location
This is your first step. Setting your voting date gives you a clear deadline to finish your research. Luckily, Early Voting starts this week in local cities across HamCo, which makes it easier to plan ahead.
Here are the Early Voting dates and locations available in Hamilton County. Make sure to choose the one that works best for you and lock in your voting plan!
LAST DAY TO VOTE: TUESDAY NOVEMBER, 5 from 6:00am–6:00pm
If you're not sure of your precinct you can check it at indianavoters.com
Step 2: Vote for Indiana Democrats
This is the year we can’t afford to only vote for the top of the ticket and ignore crucial down-ballot races, like Attorney General. We have an incredible slate of candidates from top to bottom, and they need your support! Learn more about them at hamcodemsin.org/meet-the-candidates.
And did we mention we have a candidate for County Surveyor? Tom Davis has over 30 years of experience and is ready to take on this essential role.
Want to make things simple? Vote Straight Democratic Ticket. Even some Republicans have told us that’s exactly what they’re doing this election!
Step 3: Vote for School Board Members
This is critical because School Board elections aren’t included in the straight Democratic vote. Since these races are considered "non-partisan," the Hamilton County Democratic Party does not endorse specific School Board candidates. However, there are community organizations that do, and their endorsements can help guide your decision.
Check out our previous blog on this topic https://www.hamcodemsin.org/post/your-school-board-election-questions-answered. You can also join the discussions in our Facebook group to see how many of our members feel about the candidates.
Step 4: Judge Retention
This is a very nuanced topic that deserves careful consideration and can’t be summed up with a quick slogan. In Hamilton County, there are 4 judges up for retention that require your attention.
Here are a couple of articles to help you decide whether these justices should be retained:
Here's a great primer on the Indiana Supreme Court and Court of Appeals:
No - Against Retaining: These judges were all appointed by the Governor, and all 5 are Republicans. If Jennifer McCormick becomes Governor, it’s important to give her the chance to appoint judges that align with her vision. If the majority votes "No," the new Governor will appoint new judges.
Yes - Retain: Sheila Kennedy argues for retaining the justices.
Step 5: Public Question
This question is a clean-up action to finalize the transition that removed the State Superintendent of Public Instruction as an elected office. In 2021, it became an appointed position—Secretary of Education, chosen by the Governor. This ballot measure simply removes the now-nonexistent elected office from the Governor’s line of succession.
For more information, you can check out this article: Indiana Capital Chronicle.
Step 6: GO VOTE! Before Nov. 5th
As Dr. Seuss once said, "You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go."
"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go."
Well, now it’s time to decide—so go and cast your vote! Voting is one of the most powerful actions we can take to protect our democracy. Your voice matters, and every vote counts.
Let’s make a difference. Go vote and save democracy!