Tuesday, November 4th, is your last opportunity to vote this election cycle. As always, the ballot is packed with important local and statewide decisions that will directly impact our communities, schools, and future.
Texans will also have the chance to shape our state’s Constitution on Election Day. Each of the 17 proposed amendments must receive support from a majority of voters for them to be adopted into the Texas Constitution. These measures cover a wide range of issues, from taxes and education to infrastructure, judicial reform, and parental rights.
The League of Women Voters has a plain-language, nonpartisan breakdown of the amendments here. Texas AFT has not taken a position on any of the amendments, but you can find a variety of voting analysis from trusted policy organizations like Every Texan and recommendations from some county political parties and the state Republican party.
Texas AFT members are busy turning out the vote for critical school board races in Aldine, Houston and Cy-Fair. We are also knocking on doors for a Voter-Approval Tax Rate Election (VATRE) in Socorro and critical bond election in Brownsville. Voting in school board elections empowers residents to shape the future of their districts and protect their right to local representation even when a district, like Houston ISD, is under state control.
Additionally, voters in Texas Senate District 9 have the opportunity to fill that seat in a special election. Texas AFT COPE has endorsed Taylor Rehmet.
Know Before You Go
- Study the ballot: Depending on where you live, your ballot will look different. Take at least a few minutes before you vote to read up on your local races and see how the 17 proposed constitutional amendments might affect you.
- Make a plan: You can’t have your phone with you at the polls so you’ll need to write down your voting plan. You can bring a piece of paper with you to the voting booth!
- Bring a friend: Only 3% of registered Texas voters have voted early. When turnout is that low, every vote matters. Check in with your friends, neighbors, and fellow union members to make sure they’ve voted.
On Election Day – Tuesday, Nov. 4 – polls are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. statewide. Make sure to bring a valid state-issued photo ID and a paper copy of your voting plan.