League of Women Voters Offers Local Election Info

From the LWV

While the 2016 Presidential election is already making headlines, local Westchester voters are turning their attention now to the Nov. 3, 2015 election for local and countywide office; and the League of Women Voters of Westchester is working hard to provide nonpartisan information about the 235 candidates in 150 races and their positions on issues, as well the propositions on ballots in Westchester County.

In the last few years, the LWV has updated its website, www.Vote411.org, enabling candidates to expand on their information in the traditional printed Voters Guide and to include late arriving information. Also as a result of advances in electronic media, local candidate forums, once limited to a live audience, are replayed on cable television and can be linked on demand from websites and Facebook. At least 15 forums are scheduled this year.

On the www.Vote411.org website, all candidates for the municipal and county offices were invited by the League of Women Voters of Westchester to provide answers to questions about themselves, specific issues and their contact information. Voters then can go directly to the website, type in their address, and see a personalized ballot with the names and information placed by the candidates. The site also gives the voters their polling places, which includes access to a map and directions.

Copies of the printed Voters Guide, with information from the website submitted by the print deadline, will continue to be available in libraries and other public places. Check your local media for information on League candidate forums and access to replay, or contact the League office at 949-0607.

Local Leagues in various Westchester communities have also registered dozens of voters by setting up tables at local events, public places and college campuses.

“Voting is the most straightforward means for influencing public policy,” said Marylou Green, LWVW president. “No one should minimize the importance of every ballot cast; elections have been decided by a handful of voters or even one vote.”

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots political organization with chapters throughout the 50 states. The League neither supports nor opposes candidates but promotes informed citizen participation in government through education and advocacy. Membership is open to all citizens of voting age.

Below is the QR code for accessing www.Vote411.org from smartphones or tablets: