Plus: Why Should You Use One?
Every election season brings a flood of names, issues, and ballot measures. It’s not always easy to keep track of who’s running, what they stand for, or what certain propositions actually mean.
That’s where voter guides come in.
Put simply, a voter guide is a tool to help you make sense of what you’ll see on your ballot.
Whether it’s a quick summary of where candidates stand on the issues or a breakdown of local measures, a good voter guide helps you walk into the voting booth informed and confident.
Different Kinds of Voter Guides
Not all voter guides look the same or serve the same purpose. Here are a few types you’re likely to come across:
- Official Guides: Many state or local governments send out voter information booklets. These include important details like polling hours, ID requirements, and full text (or summaries) of ballot measures. They don’t endorse candidates; they’re designed to be strictly factual.
- Nonpartisan Guides: These are created by civic organizations and compare candidates side-by-side on key issues and often include direct quotes from the candidates themselves. These guides aim to inform, not persuade.
- Values-Based or Advocacy Guides: Some guides come from groups with specific values, causes, or faith-based perspectives. They may rate or recommend candidates based on how closely those candidates align with the group’s views. These can be helpful if you care deeply about certain issues—but it’s always wise to understand the group behind the recommendations.
- Interactive Online Guides: Many voter guides now let you plug in your address and see a personalized sample ballot. These digital tools often link to candidate bios, voting records, endorsements, and sometimes even video interviews or survey answers.
What’s Inside a Voter Guide?
While each guide is a little different, most include:
- Candidate Information: Who’s running, what offices they’re seeking, their experience, and where they stand on key issues.
- Ballot Measure Explanations: Summaries of local or state propositions, often with short arguments for and against.
- Voting Logistics: Deadlines, polling places, how to vote early or by mail, and what to bring with you.
- Sources: Reputable guides usually explain where they got their information—whether it’s public records, candidate questionnaires, or campaign websites.
Some guides even allow you to mark your choices or save them to bring with you when you vote.
Why It Matters
A lot of people feel confident voting for president or governor—but then leave the rest of the ballot blank. Local races, judicial elections, and propositions can have just as much impact on your daily life, but they don’t always get as much media coverage. That’s where a voter guide can make a big difference.
Voter guides help level the playing field by giving everyone—regardless of background or experience—a fair shot at being an informed participant in democracy.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Voter Guide
- Don’t Wait: Start reviewing your guide as soon as it’s available so you’re not rushed before Election Day.
- Compare Sources: It’s helpful to look at more than one guide, especially if you want both nonpartisan info and issue-based insights.
- Make a Plan: Many guides let you save your picks or print a sample ballot to take with you.
- Pass It On: Share voter guides with friends or family members who may not know where to start.
Final Thoughts
Voting is one of the most important ways we shape the future of our communities, and a voter guide is one of the best tools to help you do it well. Whether you’re passionate about education, public safety, taxes, or personal freedoms, showing up informed makes your voice stronger. So next time an election rolls around, don’t just guess. Grab a voter guide—and vote like it matters. Because it does.
