Voting isn't rocket science; however, throw in redistricting, new precinct lines, 12 ballots, and petition candidates – then it may take a rocket scientist to comprehend the upcoming election.

On November 6, the general election will include many petition candidates on the ballot. The petition candidates were not on the ballot for the primary election because of the non filing of a financial disclosure form when they filed for their seats. All but one of the candidates who filed by petition were successful in meeting the required number of the registered voter signatures needed to be on the ballot for this general election. The candidate who did not meet this requirement will run as a write-in. The candidates who won their party’s nomination during the primary will be listed on the ballot as their party representative, that is “democratic” or “republican” and the petition candidates will be on the ballot as “petition” candidates. When voting, if the voter selects “straight party” they may do so and still have the option of voting for one or more of the petition candidates. The voter must search for the candidate they wish to vote for and click the “Button” to the left of the candidate’s name. The remaining party selections will stay the same.

Another confusing factor is that there are 12 different ballots for this election. This is not uncommon as each district has different candidates. Voters should also take into account that each precinct may have more than one ballot style because that precinct has several districts represented. Samples of each ballot will be available for review on Election Day. The sample ballots are labeled according to the precinct and represent what the voter will see when they go into the voting booth and begin the voting process. The News has included several sample ballots in this issue.

To vote on Election Day, citizens will have to provide a Voter Registration Card, driver's license, or DMV-issued ID Card. If a citizen registered to vote by mail, and is voting for the first time, and did not submit proof of ID with his application, additional ID, such as a driver's license, will be required.

Voters should also keep in mind that with the possibility of a large turnout, the process may be slow therefore requiring a little patience. Further information can be obtained at the Williamsburg County Election Commission at (843) 355-0304 or visit the South Carolina State Election Commission at scvotes.org.