A Voting Day Survival Guide

After what seems like the longest campaign in history, voting day is finally here.
Residents will keep their eyes on a highly contentious presidential election but also some key local races. This year, three county commissioners are running for re-election and Spring Hill voters will decide whether they want an independent fire district.
Here is a voting primer that should answer many of your questions today. Keep it with you as you wade through what promises to be an exciting day in local and national politics.

Q: When do the polls open and close?
A: Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 7 p.m.

Q: When can I expect results of the local races to start trickling in?
A: The Hernando County Government Broadcasting Bright House Channel 622 will start showing live precinct results by 7:30 p.m. It could be closer to 10 p.m. before the majority of the county's 56 precincts report, giving a clearer indication of the winner, according to Supervisor of Elections Annie Williams.
Results will also be available on the Internet at www.hernandocounty.us by clicking on the "Live Webstreaming" icon in the upper right corner of the home page. For more information about the broadcast, call Hernando County Government Broadcasting at 540-6777.

Q: What kind of voting system will I be using when I mark my ballot?
A: Hernando County uses an optical scan system with paper ballots.

Q: How do I know which precinct I am in?
A: Visit the Supervisor of Elections Web site at www.hernandovotes.com/PrecinctSearch.htm and fill out the required information. Or call 754-4125.

Q: Will I have to fight off rain while driving to the polls?
A: While weather is frequently a factor in elections, it should not be an issue today for Hernando County. It should be dry and sunny with temperatures near 80.

Q: If the person I voted for wins, how soon will he or she take office?
A: That depends on the race. For example, county commissioners will be sworn in Tuesday, Nov. 18. The next president will be sworn into office on Inauguration Day, Jan. 20, 2009. For more information about individual races call the Supervisor of Elections Office at 754-4125.

Q: What do I have to bring with me to the polling place?
A: You will be asked to show a current and valid picture identification with a signature photo and signature identification, such as a driver's license.

Q: What if I forget to bring identification? Will the poll worker turn me away?
A: You should not be turned away. Instead, you should be allowed to vote a provisional ballot. The local canvassing board will compare your signature with that on your voter registration card. If the signatures match, your ballot will count.

Q: When will all these candidate signs start coming down?
A: Candidates have 14 days to remove them, or else the county can issue a notice of violation and possible fine.

Q: How many people voted in the 2004 presidential election in Hernando County and who did they vote for?
A: Of the 80,532 people who voted in the last presidential election, 52.93 percent voted for incumbent Republican George Bush and 46.17 percent for Democratic Sen. John Kerry.

Sources: Hernando County Supervisor of Elections Office; Florida Division of Elections.