Voting is one of the many ways you can make a difference in your community. As an electric cooperative, Northern Electric was formed on the foundations of democratic representation and concern for community. We want to encourage everyone to use their voice to shape our communities. This November, South Dakotas will choose who we want to represent us in the United States Senate, United House of Representative, as well as Governor and Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, and more. This is your opportunity to choose the best person for the job!

In our state primaries this June, only 34.5% of eligible voters cast a vote. While Northern Electric is a locally-owned cooperative, we’re part of a larger network of electric co-ops. Through our non-partisan grassroots program known as “Co-ops Vote,” we’re working to encourage voter turnout. There’s power in numbers, and when we all show up at the polls, we can voice the issues that matter most to our community.

Get Ready

To help, Co-ops Vote has a website full of voter resources and information. You can check it out at vote.coop. Remember, it’s essential to regularly check your registration and verify that your information is correct and up to date. You can check your registration on the South Dakota Secretary of State website’s Voter Information Portal, at sdsos.gov/elections-voting/

Get The details

General Election Date: Nov. 3

Voter registration deadline: Oct. 19

Absentee/Early voting: Began Sept. 18

It’s important to know about upcoming voter registration deadlines, the process for requesting absentee ballots and more, so you don’t miss key dates. You can find information about voting in South Dakota by visiting the Secretary of State website, or visit vote.coop.

Get INFORMED

Before you head to the polls, it’s important to be educated on the policy issues that help keep our community’s power reliable, affordable, and safe. The South Dakota Secretary of State website has sample ballots, as well as the draft and final versions of the ballot measures available for you to read. 

Get The background

Before voting, take the time to learn about your candidates. You can view a list of your current elected officials on the Voices for Cooperative Power website as well as the Secretary of State website. Make sure their policy positions align with your values and the changes you would like to see in your community.

Get others involved!