If you are someone who follows local politics, it has—no doubt—been a very difficult time to be paying attention. In Nebraska, we have seen wild attacks on comprehensive health education, reproductive rights, housing, food security and more. If you hold these issues dear to your heart, it can be a slippery slope into feeling utter despair, and it could be tempting to stop engaging in the system altogether. Rest assured, the system has been designed to make you feel that way.
Many opponents to basic human rights are hoping you are so worn down or distracted that you no longer see the point. But this year is an election year in Nebraska, and YOUR VOICE MATTERS. While the voting system itself is oppressive—there is still reason to cast your ballot.
In short, local elections matter. In fact, local elections have more impact on your daily life than presidential elections. But time and time again, the polls see greater voter turnout for presidential elections. Make voting a priority this year. Create your own voting plan and talk to your friends and family. Ask if they have a voting plan. Help others understand voting and the upcoming elections that they have the opportunity to participate in. Offer to give others a ride to the polls.
Below we break down the upcoming elections taking place in 2022 and important dates to remember. We have also collected all the resources in one place—www.OmahaVotes.com—to provide the tools you need to be engaged in electing new representatives.
Stay engaged in this work. This movement needs you.
UPCOMING ELECTIONS
Primary Election* — May 10, 2022 (polls open 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
Important Voter Registration Deadlines:
- ONLINE: Friday, April 22
- BY MAIL: Postmarked by Friday, April 22
- IN PERSON: Monday, May 2 (extended due to Arbor Day)
General Election — November 8, 2022 (polls open 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
Important Voter Registration Deadlines:
- ONLINE: Friday, October 21, 2022
- BY MAIL: Friday, October 21, 2022 (postmarked)
- IN PERSON: Friday, October 28, 2022
VOTING OPTIONS
Early Voting (At Home or In Person)
Early voting at home (formerly known as absentee voting) is available for all registered voters. The last day to request an early ballot is Friday, April 22. You can return your early ballot request form through the mail or in person. Completed ballots must be received by the closing of the polls (8:00 pm CST) on Election Day (May 10) in order to be counted. You can track your absentee ballot on the Secretary of State website.
You can also skip the lines and vote early in-person. The first day to vote early in-person for the Primary Election is Monday, April 11. These votes are taken at your election commission office.
Overseas citizens and U.S. military personnel can find information on how to register to vote and request an absentee ballot at the Overseas Vote Foundation.
On Election Day (In Person)
Before you vote in person on Election Day, here are a few resources for you: