Midterms 2022: requirements and voting deadlines

The midterm elections will be held on Nov. 8. Voters will determine the new balance of power in Congress. Specifically, the 168 million likely voters will decide how one-third of the Senate (35 representatives) and the entire House of Representatives (435) are reshuffled, as well as the governors of 36 states and dozens of state executive offices.

Thirty-five million Hispanics are eligible to vote in these midterms. Inflation, national security, the migration crisis, education, health and crime are just a few of numerous issues are of concern to the Hispanic voter in this election. Your participation will be essential and it is important to know the procedures for active participation.

Although each state has its own rules and dates for voting, the general requirements can be consulted in Spanish on this official website. The requirements that apply throughout the country to be able to vote are as follows:

1. Be a U.S. citizen.

2. Be 18 years old. In most states you can register to vote before your 18th birthday if you will be 18 on election day. Here you can find out the voting age requirements for each state.

3. Residing in the state of registration. If you are homeless, you can consult the requirements for this group here.

4. Not be serving a prison sentence.

5. Not have been declared mentally incompetent. Rules vary by state.

6. Some states require an official identification, such as a social security number or driver's license.

Key dates to vote in the midterm elections

The mid-term elections are held on Nov. 8. However, there are numerous options to vote ahead of time. It is very important to check the deadline for voter registration and for submitting an early vote if this is the option chosen. In Florida, the deadline to register is October 11; in New York, October 14; and in California, October 24. The dates vary by state, so it is important to know the specific rules for each one.

For example, the deadline in Texas is also October 11, but for certain groups (65 and older, sick or disabled, among others) the state receives vote by mail applications until October 28. The Secretary of State explains specific voting procedures here.

To access voting rules and requirements for any other state, Voz Media provides you with this official web address:key dates to vote in each state.