Since January 2022, the Pulaski County Clerk has recorded 5,411 new registered voters, 44% of whom are young voters ages 18 to 24, according to data from the office as of Sept. 1.

This year’s data is similar to last year’s. A total of 6,858 people registered to vote in 2021, and about 44% of those, 3,044, were young voters. 

The last day to register to vote in Arkansas is Oct. 11. Early voting starts on Oct. 24, and Election Day is Nov. 8.

Though 2022 is not a major presidential election year, important state and local elections are on the ballot in November. In Little Rock, the mayor’s race includes incumbent Frank Scott Jr. against three opponents. Six city board positions are also up for election, half of which have opponents.

Ballot issues on the ballot include the authorization of adult-use cannabis and a attempt put forward by legislators to  require 60% approval for future changes , rather than a majority vote. Another ballot issue would allow the General Assembly to convene themselves into extraordinary session, a power currently held only by the governor. Another ballot issue would add religious freedom to the Arkansas Constitution and would prohibit state and local governments from practicing religion unless there is a compelling reason to do so.

If you have any inkling to let your voice be heard, ensure you’re registered to vote with the Arkansas Secretary of State . This is also a great source to find your designated polling place — that’s key on Election Day, because you’re not able to vote anywhere else like during early voting.

If not yet registered, Arkansas residents can submit forms through the mail or in person. Qualifications for voters in the state include being at least 18 years old and being both a resident of Arkansas and a citizen of the United States. 

Convicted felons who are currently incarcerated or on parole or probation can’t register until they’ve served out their sentences. People “judged mentally incompetent by a court with [state] jurisdiction” are also not eligible to vote, according to the Department of Motor Vehicles.

In-person registration sites include county’s clerk offices and any DMV in Arkansas. Other registration locations are public libraries, any assistance or disability agency and military recruitment offices. To meet the cut-off, registration must be completed by Oct. 11.

If you choose to register by mail, you must print off an application and send it by snail mail. Include your driver’s license number or the last four digits of your social security number. To meet the cut-off, the mail must be postmarked by Oct. 11. 

College students in Arkansas should vote according to their permanent address; if that’s out-of-county, or out-of-state, you should request an absentee ballot. 

Information on Arkansas absentee ballots can be found here.

Any updates to existing voter registrations, like a change of name or address, should be made with your county clerk before the deadline.

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