Election Day

Election Day History

Election Day is a staple in the democratic process in which citizens of the United States actively participate in selecting their representatives, ranging from the seats of local government to the presidency. This fundamental aspect of American democracy is rich in history and purpose, symbolizing the power handed to the people to determine their country's future course.

Election Day dates back to the formation of the United States in the late 18th century. The first presidential election was held in 1788—89 when George Washington was chosen as the first U.S. president. Throughout the years, the election process has evolved, bridging gaps of disfranchisement by expanding voter eligibility to include racial minorities and women. It centers around one fundamental principle: each vote counts and has the power to shape policies, societal norms, and the overall direction of the nation.

Considered to be the finale of the bustling campaign season, Election Day provides a platform for citizens to voice their opinions about the candidates' promises, manifesto, and the direction they wish to see their nation head towards. Election Day is enshrined in the U.S. law as taking place on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November, thereby typically falling between November 2nd and 8th. Election Day takes place this year on November 7th, 2023.

Election Day facts & quotes

• Elections held for federal offices only occur on even-numbered years.
• There is no law in the Constitution or Federal mandate which requires electorates to vote in accordance with the popular vote of their state.
• There are 538 electoral college members. In order to win the vote for President of the United States, a candidate must obtain at least 270 of these votes.
• Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves and the only way they could do this is by not voting. - Franklin D. Roosevelt
• Let each citizen remember at the moment he is offering his vote that he is not making a present or a compliment to please an individual--or at least that he ought not so to do; but that he is executing one of the most solemn trusts in human society for which he is accountable to God and his country. - Samuel Adams, The Writings of Samuel Adams, Harry Alonzo Cushing, editor (New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1907), Vol. IV, p. 256.

In the News and Trending for Election Day

Top things to do for Election Day

• Register to vote prior to Election Day.
• Attend a local polling place and cast your vote.
• If voting by absentee ballot or mail-in ballot, make sure it arrives on or before Election Day.
• Be informed about the candidates and new amendments on the ballot before going to the polling place.
• Attend an election day party.