Make an Informed Decision
How can I make an informed decision?
What is on my ballot?
You can find out who's on your local ballot at Vote411. You can also use a resource like BallotReady or Ballotpedia to view a sample ballot and research detailed, nonpartisan information on candidate profiles and positions at the same time.
How can I educate myself? How do I decide who to vote for?
We recommend reviewing candidates’ websites and candidate questionnaires, reading local news articles, and attending or viewing candidate debates and forums before voting.
Use a resource like BallotReady, Ballotpedia, or VoteSmart to research detailed, nonpartisan information on each candidate’s profiles and positions.
Review candidate questionnaires and editorial board endorsements by local newspapers. Also, check whether local parties or political organizations you are aware of or involved with have made endorsements. For judges, consider local bar association recommendations.
Do I have to vote for every position on the ballot?
No. If you don’t feel sufficiently informed about a particular office, set of candidates, or issue, you can choose to leave that category blank. This does not invalidate your ballot – your other selections will still be counted.
How can I get more involved?
Consider volunteering for a candidate’s campaign (visit your preferred candidate’s website to learn more) or working at a polling place on Election Day (contact your local election authority to learn more).
Sources and Additional Resources
- Centre County Voting Information
- PA Voting & Elections Information
- BallotReady – Sample ballots and voter guide
- Ballotpedia – Sample ballots and voter guide
- VoteSmart.org – Information about candidates and referenda
- Vote.org – Registration and voting information
- CanIVote.org – Registration and voting information
- U.S. Vote Foundation – Registration and voting information