I love Election Day.
My favorite thing is the poll workers at the Glencliff High School where I vote. When I check in at the precinct later this morning, I’ll probably trade pleasantries with the same crew of retired Nashvillians who have checked me in during the last five elections. I’ll ask them how many people have already voted, and they’ll count their list and make a guess.
I’m naturally a cynic, but there’s a bit of corny optimism I get from voting, from standing in line with strangers so that together we can pick our leaders. At some point, we’re going to get frustrated with our district council members, the at-large council members or the mayor. But today is all about the future. It’s about community. It’s about shared experience and we don’t have enough of these anymore. I hope you go and vote today if you haven’t already
Steve Cavendish, Editor
Where do I vote?
Your polling location depends on your precinct, which can be found at the top of your voter registration card, under the heading “Election Day Polling Location.” If your voter card is lost, you can find your district and polling location here and your sample ballot here. If you vote at District 11- Precinct One, your polling location has changed since the last election, and the updated address is listed here. You do not need your voter registration card to vote, but you will need to bring your ID.
When can I vote?
All Davidson County polling locations are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. As long as you are in line by 7 p.m., you can still vote.
What’s the weather? Roads?
Nashville Severe WX says the city will likely see on-and-off rain throughout the day Thursday. Severe weather is not expected, but it could be enough to make road conditions less than ideal. Follow them on Twitter and Instagram for updates.
Another thing to keep in mind, if your path to the polls is anywhere near downtown: the Music City Grand Prix is happening this weekend, and road closures began on Wednesday. A full list of road closures can be found on the Metro Nashville website, and this flier provides information on how to get around for bikers and pedestrians.
Still haven’t made up your mind?
The Banner has assembled a voters guide over the past few months that gives you all the tools you need to make up your mind before heading to the polls.
Almost every candidate for metro council, both in the at-large and district races, filled out a questionnaire sent out by the banner. Their answers, along with coverage of some of the most competitive district council races, can be found at the link. You will also find Q&As with the mayoral candidates, coverage of the biggest issues facing Nashville and in depth looks at where the money in these races is coming from.
What about when the polls close?
We’re excited to announce that we will have live results on NashvilleBanner.com tomorrow night on this page, thanks to our partnership with Decision Desk HQ.
On your phone or laptop, follow the Banner on Twitter (@NashvilleBanner) and we’ll give you updates throughout the night, including calls on races.
If you’re in front of a TV, tune in to our partners at NewsChannel 5, from 7-9 p.m. on NC5+ and from 8-9 on NewsChannel 5.
If you want to hang out with a campaign, check out our full list of candidate watch parties here.