NOW YOU KNOW: Election Day is getting closer

The following is an update from delegates Ryan Nawrocki and Kathy Szeliga.

Election Day is just around the corner! Next Tuesday, November 5, marks a pivotal moment for the 2024 presidential election. Early voting has already begun, and as your elected officials, we encourage everyone to exercise this essential democratic right. Every vote counts and every voter matters when it comes to making a difference for our community and our country.

We urge you to vote early if you have not already done so. Although some prefer the tradition of voting on Election Day, voting early can help you avoid last-minute conflicts or unexpected emergencies. Plus, lines are often shorter during the early voting period, giving you a smoother voting experience.

Early voting details

Baltimore County is offering early voting through Thursday, October 31st. You can vote at any of the 11 designated vote centers in the county, including:

• Honeygo Leisure Center
• Victory Villa Community Center
• Jacksonville Recreation Center

Voting center opening hours:

Early voting centers are open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. through October 31st. Remember, you can vote anywhere in your county. However, if you have changed your address, you can update it at the center – but by yourself. You cannot change your party affiliation.

Mail-in ballots

If you requested a mail-in ballot, remember that it must be postmarked by November 5th or placed in a designated ballot box by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. Baltimore County makes ballot drop boxes available at various polling locations and at the local board of elections.

Maryland offers a permanent mail-in ballot list for those who prefer a long-term solution. By registering, you will automatically receive your ballot in future elections, ensuring a convenient and consistent voting experience. This is a great option to ensure your vote is cast.

Voting on election day

For those voting on November 5th, please go to your assigned polling place. The Maryland Board of Elections also provides information and accommodations for voters with disabilities.

This year's vote covers two key themes that we would like to highlight:

Question 1: Constitutional Amendment on Reproductive Freedom

Question 1 proposes a constitutional amendment entitled “Declaration of Rights – Right to Reproductive Freedom.” This measure not only adds abortion to the Maryland Constitution. Maryland already allows abortions for all nine months of pregnancy; However, this change will create new challenges for both parents and healthcare providers.

If Question 1 passes, it will have broader implications that go beyond abortion and impact parental rights and the autonomy of health care providers. The wording of the amendment likely allows minors to make important, life-changing health decisions without parental consent or notification. A child of any age can consent to anything that is considered “reproductive freedom.” This means that minor children would have a constitutional right to consent to puberty blockers, opposite-sex hormones and gender-affirming surgeries without parents having to give consent or even notification. Parents must be involved in all aspects of their child's health care. Any attempt to eliminate the role of parents in the healthcare decision-making process is wrong.

We demand a “no” vote on question 1 because we believe this would have an unnecessary and potentially irreversible impact on children and parental rights.

Question B: Establishment of the Office of Inspector General

Question B seeks to consolidate the Office of Inspector General within the Baltimore County Charter. This measure aims to improve oversight and transparency in the work of local government. Under this change, the inspector general would have subpoena powers, special qualifications and a separate budget. Current Inspector General Kelly Madigan has exemplified the value of this role by assuming responsibility at critical times for Baltimore County.

We strong Support question B as it strengthens government transparency and reinforces the ethical standards by which all elected officials should be held.

Make your voice heard

As our nation and state face important decisions, every vote is a vote in shaping the future. Whether you vote early or on Election Day, make sure to VOTE.

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