Charleston Prepares for the Presidential Election – Every Vote Counts!
It’s that time again, Charleston! The presidential election is just around the corner, set for November 5, and we want to make sure everyone is ready to cast their vote. A key reminder for all of us is that every vote matters and every vote counts. As we count down to election day, let’s take a moment to explore everything you need to know to make your voting experience as smooth as possible.
Where to Vote
If you’re new to the area or haven’t voted in recent elections, we’ve got good news for you. Several Charleston County Public Libraries (CCPL) will serve as polling locations on election day. Here’s a list of some of those libraries:
- Mount Pleasant Public Library: 1133 Mathis Ferry Road
- Hurd/St. Andrews Library: 1735 N Woodmere Drive in Charleston
- Baxter-Patrick James Island Library: 1858 Grimball Road in Charleston
- Main Library: 68 Calhoun Street in Downtown Charleston
- Wando Mount Pleasant Public Library: 1400 Carolina Park Boulevard in Mt. Pleasant
- St. Paul’s Hollywood Library: 5130 SC-165 in Hollywood
It’s important to note that libraries acting as polling places will not be open for regular library services on election day. Be sure to check your assigned polling location in advance, as the polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on November 5.
What You Need to Vote
Before you head out to vote, make sure you’re aware of the ID requirements. You’ll need to bring either a:
- South Carolina Driver’s License
- Standard License or Real ID
- Voter Registration Card (with a photo)
- Federal Military ID (or Department of Defense Photo ID)
- U.S. Passport
If you find that you can’t make it to a polling location on November 5, don’t worry—you have options! Consider participating in Early Voting, which will take place from October 21 through November 2. Early voting hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and you can visit any early voting location in your county during this period. Just remember to bring proof of ID!
Early Voting Locations
Three CCPL libraries will be open for early voting:
- Hollywood/St. Paul’s Library
- Main Downtown Library
- Baxter-Patrick James Island Library
For a complete list of early voting locations in Charleston County and its surroundings, head over to SCvotes.gov.
Absentee Ballots and Accessibility
If you prefer to vote absentee, the deadline to request an absentee ballot for this election is October 25 at 5 p.m.. And if you need assistance or can’t access the polling place conveniently, don’t forget about curbside voting. Accessible parking, doors, pathways, and even the option to vote directly from your vehicle are available for those who need it. Plus, poll managers are prepared with printed instructions for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
With all this information, we hope everyone in Charleston feels empowered to get out and vote this election cycle. Your voice matters—so be sure to make it heard!
So, mark your calendars and let’s make it a priority to participate in this important civic duty. Happy voting!
