The following is an update from Delegates Ryan Nawrocki and Kathy Szeliga.

Election Day is almost here! Next Tuesday, November 5, marks a pivotal moment for the 2024 presidential election. Early voting has already begun, and as your elected officials, we encourage everyone to take advantage of this essential democratic right. Every vote counts, and every voter matters in making a difference for our community and country.

We urge you to vote early if you haven’t already done so. While some may prefer the tradition of voting on Election Day, voting early can help you avoid last-minute conflicts or unexpected emergencies. Plus, the lines are often shorter during the early voting period, giving you a smoother voting experience.

Early Voting Details

Baltimore County offers early voting until Thursday, October 31. You can vote at any of the 11 designated voting centers in the county, including:

• Honeygo Recreation Center
• Victory Villa Community Center
• Jacksonville Recreation Center

Voting Center Hours:

Early voting centers are open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., through October 31. Remember, you can vote at any location in your county, but note that if you’ve changed your address, you can update it at the center—although you cannot change your party affiliation.

Mail-in Ballots

If you requested a mail-in ballot, remember it must be postmarked by November 5 or dropped in a designated ballot box by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Baltimore County provides ballot boxes at various voting sites and at the local Board of Elections.

Maryland offers a permanent mail-in ballot list for those who prefer a long-term solution. Signing up means you’ll automatically receive your ballot in future elections, ensuring a convenient and consistent voting experience. This is a great option to ensure your vote gets cast.

Voting on Election Day

For those voting on November 5, please go to your assigned polling site. The Maryland Board of Elections also provides information and accommodations for voters with disabilities.

 This year’s ballot includes two key issues we’d like to highlight:

Question 1: Constitutional Amendment on Reproductive Freedom

Question 1 proposes a constitutional amendment titled “Declaration of Rights—Right to Reproductive Freedom.” This measure does more than place abortion in Maryland’s Constitution. Maryland already permits abortion for all nine months of pregnancy; however, this amendment will introduce new challenges for both parents and healthcare providers.

If passed, Question 1 will have broader implications that extend beyond abortion, affecting parental rights and healthcare provider autonomy. The amendment’s wording likely permits minors to make significant, life-altering health decisions without any parental consent or notification. A child of any age will be able to give consent to anything considered “reproductive freedom”.  This means minor children would have a constitutional right to consent to puberty blockers, opposite-sex hormones, and gender surgeries without parental consent or even notification. Parents must be involved in all aspects of their child’s healthcare. Any attempt to eliminate a parent’s role in the healthcare decision-making process is wrong.

We are urging a “No” vote on Question 1 because we believe it would have unnecessary and potentially irreversible impacts on children and parental rights.

Question B: Establishing the Office of the Inspector General

Question B seeks to solidify the Office of the Inspector General within the Baltimore County Charter. This measure aims to enhance oversight and transparency in local government operations. Under this amendment, the Inspector General would have subpoena power, dedicated qualifications, and a separate budget. Current Inspector General Kelly Madigan has exemplified the role’s value, providing accountability during critical times for Baltimore County.

We strongly support Question B as it strengthens government transparency and reinforces the ethical standards to which all elected officials should be held.

Make Your Voice Heard

As our nation and state face critical decisions, every vote is a voice in shaping the future. Whether you vote early or on Election Day, be sure to VOTE.