By Sabrina Bates
On Nov. 8, voters in Tennessee will decide on a governor for the next four years and whether to change the Tennessee Constitution through the four amendments presented on the ballot.
In conjunction with National Voter Registration Month in September and National Voter Registration Day on Sept. 20, the Secretary of State’s office is joining local election commission offices to remind citizens that their vote matters.
According to the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth, Benton County has a population of 13,012 ages 18 and older. According to county records, 10,933 of those Benton County adults are registered to vote. The county saw only 4,241 of those registered to vote actually cast a ballot in the Aug. 4 election.
“Voting is not a privilege, but an obligation for each citizen. Voting is your voice, so be sure to register to vote and cast a ballot in the upcoming election,” Benton County Administrator of Elections Jeff Beasley said. “The last day to register to vote in the Nov. 8 election is Tuesday, Oct. 11.”
Through its website www.sos.tn.gov/civics, the Secretary of State’s office also provides free lesson plans on civic engagement created by teachers statewide. This fall, students are getting firsthand experience casting a ballot through the 2022 Tennessee Student Mock Election and making their voices heard in the 2022 Civics Essay Contest.
For more information on registering to vote, registration status, and address changes in Benton County, contact the Benton County Election Commission office at 731-584-6144 or visit the office at 113 Maple St. in Camden, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.
