It’s always important to do your civic duty and vote, and today is the last chance for those who have not yet registered to vote in this year’s elections. If you are already registered from a previous election cycle, then you are fine and do not need to re-register. However, those citizens who have never registered to vote in Louisiana, or those who wish to make changes to their registrations, must do so by 4:30 p.m. today.

Citizens have a variety of options to register to vote. You can vote online at www.geauxvote.com, or by using the smartphone app “GeauxVote Mobile.” You can also register in person at the Washington Parish Registrar of Voters office, located in the courthouse.

Voter registration is also often available at Office of Motor Vehicles locations, public assistance agencies, public schools, colleges and libraries.

There are numerous important state races on the ballot this year, including governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and treasurer. There are also races for our district’s state representative and state senator.

Finally, there is a multitude of races in the parish, including sheriff, assessor and all Washington Parish Council seats. The only way to vote in these important elections is to make sure you are properly registered.

Early voting for the election is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 10, through Saturday, Oct. 17 — excluding Sunday, Oct. 11.

For more information about elections, contact the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Office at 225-922-0900 or visit online at www.geauxvote.com.