By Gerrit Goodwin

Students not yet registered to vote are running out of time to have their voices heard in this year’s political process.

Feb. 1 is the last day to register for the March 1 presidential primary. However, students can easily register by visiting their local Department of Public Safety offices, post offices and libraries or by going online to https://webservices.sos.state.tx.us, printing out the form and mailing it before Feb. 1.

Statistically, students have always had low turnout rates, but some are eager to get to the polls.

“I’m registered to vote so I can make a difference and get somebody better in the presidential office,” said SE student Stephanie Bodine.

Other students such as SE student Sam Maldonado just don’t feel the need to vote.

“I’m just not into local or presidential voting,” he said.

Those already registered don’t have to wait for the beginning of March to cast their ballot, with Texas being one of the 37 states that allows early voting.

For those looking to avoid the long lines at the polls on March 1, early voting will be available on Feb. 16 anywhere that ballots are cast.

Students can find out if they are registered to vote by going online or calling the Tarrant County Elections Office at 817-831-8683.