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By Rita R. Robison, Consumer Specialist, Blogging at The Survive and Thrive Boomer Guide

Guest Blogger

Record voter turnout is expected throughout the nation as Americans face one of the most exciting elections in history.

Most people have made up their minds by now who they’ll vote for president.

However, there are many important state and local races on ballots throughout America. Among them are governors, members of Congress, attorneys general, treasurers, state legislators, judges, and local government officials. And, in many states, ballot measures are offered on state and local public policy issues.

Where can you find information about these candidates and ballot issues further down on the ballot?

The League of Women Voters of the United States offers a Web site Vote411.org. It provides general voter information such as:

• Voting in your state.

• Finding your polling place.

• What’s on your ballot.

• Stay informed.

To find out information about candidates to help choose a one to vote for, you can:

• Make a list of issues important to you. Research the voting history of each candidate. Eliminate candidates that don’t match up to the issues that are important to you.

• Ask knowledge friends, co-workers, and relatives.

• Read the candidates’ statements in your state and local voters’ guides.

• Visit candidate Web sites.

• Review newspaper endorsements. However, be careful here as in some cases newspaper endorsements reflect the interests of the business community rather than consumer interests.

• Visit the Web site of your political party.

Among the ballot measures across the nation are:

• Massachusetts – Decriminalize marijuana.

• California – Renewable energy standards, bond issue, gay marriage ban, abortion restrictions, additional penalties on crimes, and animal welfare.

• Washington state – Death with dignity, traffic, and health care worker requirements.

• Missouri – Home health care.

• Ohio – Paid sick leave.

• Montana – Children’s health care.

• Michigan – Universal health care and stem cell research.

• Arizona – Payday lending.

• North Dakota – Term limits repeal.

There are 153 ballot measures on the Nov. 4 ballot throughout the U.S., according to Ballotpedia.org.

To help you determine how to vote on a ballot measure, you can:

• Ask knowledge friends, co-workers, and relatives.

• Read the pro and con statements in your state and local voters’ guides.

• Visit the Web sites for the ballot measures.

• Review newspaper endorsements. However, as with candidates, be careful as some newspaper endorsements reflect the interests of the business community rather than consumer interests.

• Visit the Web site of interest groups who may have a position on the issue.

Good luck if you’re just beginning your research. Don’t be intimidated if your ballot is long. With the Internet, it easier than it’s ever been to gather information on candidates and issues.

Remember, it’s best to make the decisions in advance and not in the voting booth. Take a sample ballot with you so you can fill out your ballot quickly.

Enjoy voting and be sure to celebrate your investment in democracy and the public process when you’re finished.