CMOR State Capitol Network: Get Out the Vote

In 2006, only about half of America's registered voters actually voted -- and about one out of five of those who didn't said they were simply too busy to get to their polling place. Yet as we have seen in the past few election cycles, many elections are determined by just a few votes. So it's crucial that you, your co-workers and your family members register to vote in your community, learn about the candidates, and cast your ballot this year for the candidates of your choice.

Please participate in this year's elections, whether you vote in person, absentee, or early. At stake: the White House, the make-up of Congress, leadership of many states, and representation in state legislatures across the country. The survey and opinion research profession is under constant threat and it's crucial our votes are heard.

• Who are my state and federal legislators?
  • http://www.beavoter.org/
• Maps of federal Congressional districts
  • http://nationalatlas.gov/printable/congress.html
• Register to vote
  • http://www.beavoter.org/
• 2008 Presidential Primary Calendar
  • http://archive.stateline.org/flash-data/Primary/2008_presidential_primaries.pdf
• Early 2008 state election calendar (special elections, primaries, etc.)
  • http://www.statenet.com/resources/election_calendar.htm

Below, learn more about the 2008 federal and gubernatorial races, and the U.S. Senate and House primary election calendar.

2008 Senate Races

The terms of 34 senators will expire in January of 2009, most of whom will seek reelection. Given the slight majority, look for many of these races to be competitive. U.S. Senators serve for six year terms, and a different third of the Senate is up for election every two years.

2008 Governors Races

Eleven states will hold elections for governor, three of whom are term-limited. Democrats are defending six state houses, including Washington, which was one of the closest races in 2004. Republicans are seeking to hold on to five states, including Missouri and Indiana.

2008 U.S. House Races

All 435 U.S. House seats will be up for election in 2008 (every Congressman serves two year terms). Seventy-one members were elected with 55 percent or less, and there are a lot of open seat races. Competition should be fierce in many districts.

*March 3 is the filing deadline for non-incumbents and Feb. 15 is the filing deadline for

incumbents; **April 7 is the filing deadline for Republicans and Democrats, and June 3

is the filing deadline for Independents; ***Earlier nominating conventions; ****If the

candidate calls for a caucus, filing is allowed until when the polls close on June 10.

Source: State boards of election