City Clerk Colleen Nicol urges Riverside residents to register, exercise their right to vote 

RIVERSIDE, Calif. – City Clerk Colleen Nicol joined election officials across the state today (9/27) in celebrating National Voter Registration Day, urging Riverside residents to get registered so they can be ready to vote on Nov. 8.

[ecko_quote source=”Mayor Rusty Bailey”]Voting is a great way to participate in our democracy, but you can’t vote if you are not registered.[/ecko_quote]

The nationwide initiative is designed to encourage eligible voters across the country to quickly and easily get registered so they can make their voices heard at the ballot box.

“Voting is one of our most cherished rights, and should be celebrated by all Californians,” Nicol said. “My office, and that of the county Registrar of Voters, is eager to assist any eligible voter who wants to get registered and play a greater role in our democracy.”

More information on registering in Riverside can be found at the City Clerk’s website — http://www.riversideca.gov/city_clerk/ — or by calling 951-826-5557. The state’s voter registration website can be found at: http://registertovote.ca.gov/

“Voting is a great way to participate in our democracy, but you can’t vote if you are not registered,” Mayor Rusty Bailey said. “I applaud City Clerk Nicol for her efforts in inspiring Riversiders to register, so they can make a difference on Nov. 8.”

California residents can register to vote if they are U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, not adjudicated as mentally incompetent and not precluded by certain criminal convictions. A person must re-register to vote after moving, changing names or changing political party preference.

Nearly 7 million eligible Californians are not registered to vote, according to Secretary of State Alex Padilla. Only about 64 percent of the 1.4 million eligible voters in Riverside County are registered.

Registration applications are available at the Riverside County Registrar of Voters’ office, Department of Motor Vehicles offices, post offices and public libraries.

“Registering to vote is an important part of participating in the electoral process,” Mayor Pro Tem Andy Melendrez said. “Registering now ensures you will be able to cast a ballot in the future.”