LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Monday, October 5, is the deadline to register to vote in Kentucky. Local community activist Devine Carama is making sure he reaches as many people as possible before that deadline hits.
"We are in the fourth quarter. The last day to register is tomorrow (Monday). If not (registered), you won't get to vote this year in one of the most important elections of our lifetime," said Carama.
To reach as many people as possible last week, he started walking across the state of Kentucky, facilitating conversations along his way. By Wednesday, he hopes to have traveled 400 miles by foot.
"It's what I hoped it would be and so much more. A lot of people are just inspired by the walk, I've even helped a couple of people request their absentee ballot online that didn't know how," said Carama.
He says it's interactions like this that make the walk all worthwhile. Carama says this election is also very important because more people have the right to vote.
Back in December, Governor Beshear issued an Executive Order restoring voting rights to Kentuckians with past felony convictions. This means about 190,000 Kentuckians will regain the right to vote, but they are still required to register first.
Carama is also talking to young people who may be frustrated with the current state of the world. He says the best way to funnel your disappointment is on your voting ballot.
"This is essentially one of the few elements in our society where our voices are heard, where we have the power, the people. I just think it's important whatever side you're going to vote for, and whatever candidate you vote for. I think it's important that you utilize your voice, your God-given right and you make that voice be known," said Carama.
He also wants to make sure people are staying informed on the facts. Lots of misinformation is circulating about mail-in voting, but there is little to no data to support these theories, and Carama says people shouldn't be afraid if that's how they choose to vote.
Here are a few other dates you should keep in mind.
October 9 is the last to request an absentee ballot. In-person voting will start October 13 and continues until Election Day on November 3.
