UNH President James Dean Jr. encourages students to vote in November. Photo by Scott Ripley
Dear Wildcats,
As I continue to get to know New Hampshire and UNH, one of the attributes I am most struck by is the importance Granite Staters place on taking an active role in their communities. This civic commitment is evident in many ways but can certainly be seen in the extraordinary levels of voter turnout at our elections.
I've heard it said that in New Hampshire, politics is the state sport and everyone wants to participate. Whether you choose to vote absentee in your hometown or to vote in person in Durham, I encourage you to exercise your right to vote this November.
As the midterm elections approach, we're happy to work with the New Hampshire Secretary of State's Office and the town of Durham to share some information that will help you to exercise your right to vote.
- Voting by Absentee Ballot
Students living outside of their hometowns or home states, including those living abroad, who may not be able to be home on Election Day may choose to vote in their local elections via absentee ballot. In this case, please consult www.usa.gov/absentee-voting for detailed instructions on how to obtain a ballot from your hometown. Absentee voters should make arrangements to receive a ballot as soon as possible as state and local deadlines do vary.
- Voting in Durham
Students who reside in UNH housing or live in a private apartment in Durham are entitled to vote in Durham if they choose. Durham voting clerks will be on campus from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 22, outside of Holloway Commons to register students electing to vote in Durham. Domiciled students also may go directly to the Durham Town Hall at 8 Newmarket Road to register to vote through Oct. 31. Should you miss both opportunities, voters may register on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 6, at the polling site. To register to vote in New Hampshire, you will need a photo ID, proof of your date of birth (a driver’s license suffices) and proof of domicile (where you live).
Election Day: November 6
Please know, you may only vote once on Nov. 6 and any attempt to vote more than once, either in New Hampshire or across state lines, is a felony.
Should you have any question or need more information, please contact the New Hampshire Office of the Secretary of State at 603-271-3242 or elections@sos.nh.gov.
We’ve worked with the town of Durham to develop a digital method to confirm residence at a Durham address. You may access that by entering your UNH credentials at this link (you might take a screen shot to allow quick access during registration). Alternatively, you may bring a utility bill, lease, housing agreement or any other document that contains your name and your Durham address.
- Voting in N.H. Towns Other than Durham
Students living in towns around the state can similarly register and vote where they live. Please contact your local town hall for registration hours. You will be expected to bring a photo ID, proof of age and proof of domicile, such as a utility bill, lease or other document that contains your name and local address. The My Wildcat domicile app may not be accepted outside of Durham.
Should you have any questions, I would encourage you to contact the Office of the Secretary of State at 603-271-3242 or elections@sos.nh.gov.
With best wishes,
James W. Dean Jr.
UNH President
