Vote for Clean Water, Good Jobs, and Climate Solutions in West Virginia on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024!
Clean air and water, a healthy economy, and addressing climate change are non-partisan issues. Your vote is your voice! By participating in elections, you can help ensure that West Virginia prioritizes clean water, sustainable jobs, and investments in climate solutions. Whether you're a first-time voter or a seasoned pro, we have the resources you need to ensure your vote counts in 2024.
Why Your Vote Matters
West Virginia's future depends on the decisions we make today, and many of those decisions happen at the local level. Voting isn’t just about choosing the next president or governor—it’s about electing leaders who will shape our communities. From county commissioners to school boards, city councils to county commissioners, local officials make decisions that directly affect clean water, public health, sustainable development, and even climate policies.
These downballot elections determine the allocation of resources, implementation of environmental laws and regulations, and how to grow our local economies in ways that create good-paying jobs while safeguarding our natural resources. Your vote in these races can make a real difference in protecting our environment and building a stronger, healthier West Virginia for generations to come. Here’s what we’re voting for this election:
Climate Change in West Virginia
Flooding: West Virginia is one of the most flood-prone states in the nation, with climate change exacerbating the intensity and frequency of floods. These events devastate homes, businesses, and infrastructure, costing millions in damages each year. Voting for leaders committed to climate action can help mitigate these impacts and protect our communities.
Drought: This year, West Virginia is at the center of a drought that has devastated farmers and led to some communities running low on drinking water supplies. Climate change models predict fluctuations between drought and flooding will likely increase in severity if climate change solutions are not implemented. These extreme weather events can be prevented if we vote for leaders who make climate change mitigation a top priority.
Orphaned and Leaking Gas Wells: Thousands of orphaned and leaking gas wells are scattered across West Virginia, many of which pose significant risks to water quality and public health. These wells leak methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and other harmful chemicals into the environment. Voting for policies that prioritize the cleanup of these sites can reduce pollution and create jobs in reclamation efforts.
Access to Clean Water: Climate change impacts West Virginia's water systems, with droughts and pollution affecting water quality and availability. Protecting our water resources through climate-conscious policies ensures all West Virginians access to clean, safe drinking water.
Clean Water
Water Quality Concerns: Harmful "forever chemicals" (PFAS) contaminate over 130 water systems in West Virginia, endangering the health of our communities. Clean water is not just a necessity—it's a right. Your vote can help ensure stronger protections for our water sources.
Stream Protection: West Virginia has over 50,000 miles of rivers and streams, vital for drinking water, recreation, and wildlife. However, 6,700 miles of streams are impaired with water quality that does not meet the standards. Voting for candidates who prioritize clean water will help protect these essential resources for future generations.
Good Jobs and a Healthy Environment
Economic Opportunity: West Virginia can have both a strong economy and a healthy environment. Investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable industries can create thousands of good-paying jobs while preserving our natural resources. For example, the renewable energy sector employs over 8,000 West Virginians, which could grow significantly with the right policies.
Environmental Justice: Protecting our environment means more than just preserving our landscapes; it's about ensuring that every West Virginian has access to clean air, water, and a healthy place to live. By voting, you can support policies that create sustainable jobs and protect the health of our communities.
West Virginia Voter Resources
Important Voting Deadlines in WV
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Make sure you're ready to vote! Confirm that your registration is up to date.
Check Your Registration Status: https://apps.sos.wv.gov/Elections/Voter/FindMyPollingPlace
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If you still need to register to vote, there's still time! Register online or find out how to register by mail or in person. You can also use the link to update your registration if you have moved since the last election.
Voter registration deadline: Tuesday, Oct 15
Register to Vote in WV: https://ovr.sos.wv.gov/Register/Landing
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Knowing where to vote is crucial; population changes may have shifted your polling place to a new location. Use our tool to find your local polling station.
Find Your Polling Place: https://apps.sos.wv.gov/Elections/Voter/FindMyPollingPlace
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Knowing who and what will be on your ballot is essential for making informed decisions. Before heading to the polls, review your ballot so you can be prepared to vote on the issues and candidates that matter most to you.
Reminder: You can not bring your phone into the voting booth with you, so it’s best to make your voting plan early.See Who Will Be On Your Ballot: https://www.vote.org/ballot-information/
Make a Decision on Amendment 1: https://westvirginiawatch.com/ballot-measures/amendment-1/
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Want to avoid the crowds? West Virginia offers early voting options to make it easier for you to cast your ballot.
Early voting starts in West Virginia 13 days before Election Day.
October 23, 2024
Early voting ends in West Virginia 3 days before Election Day.
November 2, 2024
Make a Plan to Vote Early: https://s.surveyplanet.com/36rs59ik
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West Virginia requires voters to present an acceptable form of identification when voting in person. Knowing what types of IDs are accepted can help you be prepared when you go to the polls.
Check Voter ID Requirements: https://sos.wv.gov/elections/Pages/BeReg.aspx
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Serving as a poll worker can help ensure a fair and smooth election. It's a great way to get involved and support your community.
Become a Poll Worker: https://apps.sos.wv.gov/elections/PollWorkers/Register
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Help others exercise their right to vote. Sign up to volunteer with local organizations working to get out the vote.
Volunteer Opportunities:
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Stay up-to-date with the latest election news in West Virginia, including candidate platforms, local debates, and issues on the ballot.
Keep an eye on local news outlets for the latest updates on the 2024 elections, or take a look at the legislative scorecard from the Sierra Club.
Mountain State Spotlight 2024 Election Hub: https://mountainstatespotlight.org/west-virginia-2024-election-hub/
Legislative Scorecard: https://www.sierraclub.org/west-virginia/political
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Voting should be accessible to everyone. Find out what accommodations are available for voters with disabilities.
Learn about Accessible Voting: https://sos.wv.gov/elections/Pages/VoteDisability.aspx -
If you can't make it to the polls, you can still vote by mail. Learn how to request and submit your absentee ballot.
Voting by mail is easy! Your vote can help protect West Virginia’s water, create sustainable jobs, and advance climate solutions. Spread the word, share this page with your friends and family, and let’s make a difference together!
Absentee ballot application deadlines:
In Person: Received 6 days before Election Day.
By Mail: Received 6 days before Election Day.
Learn about Vote by Mail: https://sos.wv.gov/elections/Pages/AbsenteeVotingInformation.aspx
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If you have a past criminal conviction, you may still have the right to vote in West Virginia. It’s important to understand your voting rights and know how to regain them if necessary.
Restore Your Vote: https://campaignlegal.org/restoreyourvote
Additional Nationwide Voting Resources
Vote411 - https://www.vote411.org/plan-your-vote
Note: This page was developed in partnership with WV Rivers Coalition, West Virginia Citizen Action Education Fund, The Downstream Project, and the National Wildlife Federation for educational and informational purposes only. We do not endorse or oppose any candidates or political parties.