There are many instances of one vote making a difference in the outcome of an election. Read some of them.

Your vote can have an impact on our taxes, our jobs, our neighborhoods, our health insurance, our children’s education, our justice system. It’s about you, your family and your neighbors. The state office holders and members of congress we elect influence all aspects of our lives. Here are some reasons to vote on election day. 

While there are thirteen offices to be filled and 3 questions on the ballot, voters should focus on voting for those candidates who best represent their own social and economic interests. It may help to talk with people you trust, like friends and family members, to find out which candidates they support and why.

And, while it would be good to vote for someone for each office, it is not required. Voters can limit their votes to those offices where they have a preference for the candidate or the political party the candidate represents.

Start by learning about the candidates for Governor of Massachusetts. Candidate Web sites give voters information about the candidates and their beliefs. Video clips are also available to see and hear the candidates.

Deval Patrick, Democrat

Kerry Healey, Republican

Other Candidates for Public Office

Ballot Questions

Each city or town has its own clerk. You may call your city or town clerk’s office and ask if you are registered. Or, you may visit the office to ask, and register then if you need to. Clerk’s addresses and telephone numbers are at the end of this document.

You may ask your city or town clerk for this information. You may also check for this information online. This online information will tell you where you vote, but doesn’t confirm that you are registered to vote.

Election workers are at voting places to help voters. One way they help is to show voters how to mark their ballots.

If you think a ballot that you’ve marked may be misunderstood, you may ask for another ballot. The first ballot you marked will be replaced. In Massachusetts, you may ask for up to two replacement ballots.

Voting Methods in Northern Berkshire Communities

Accu-Vote: Adams, Williamstown
(print and video information about Accu-Vote voting machines)

Optech: North Adams
(print and video information about Optech  voting machines)

Paper Ballot: Clarksburg, Florida

Massachusetts Division of Elections

League of Women Voters of Massachusetts

Boston Globe Election Information (a free registration may be required)