Voting. Whether you consider it to be a right, a privilege or a responsibility, it is an integral part of democratic government. The deadline to register to vote is approaching quickly on Oct. 10, 2018 for the midterm elections on Nov. 6, 2018.

Registering to vote may seem challenging and laborious, but as many come to find, it is a simple process. Senior Peyton Hebert has already registered and urges others to not be intimidated by the task.

“It took me maybe 10 or 15 minutes to complete the entire process online,” Hebert said. “Just make sure you know your information, like your social security number and driver’s license number and you’re set.”

To register, search ‘register to vote Missouri’ and visit the ‘register to vote’ page. To register online, a mobile/touchscreen device is required. The website will prompt for an initial information sheet to be filled out, essentially to ensure voting requirements have been met, followed by another which asks for basic information, such as contact and residence information. Lastly an online signature is to be completed. The application is then ready to be submitted. If all went correctly, a confirmation form should appear and documents will be mailed to your address.

“It really isn’t difficult and I think everyone should register just so they have the opportunity,” Hebert said. “As we’ve seen in recent elections, every vote counts and it comes down just a few thousand people to make a decision and you don’t want to be the reason that the change you wanted didn’t happen.”

From a representation standpoint, social studies teacher William Crow, especially believes that citizens in the younger demographic need to register for upcoming elections.

“Right now the largest population is senior Americans, their vote is very powerful,” Crow said. “They vote for things that they support, they’re not concerned with what young people want.”