The O´Connor House project was established in 2008 to preserve the original adobe home of retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O´Connor and her husband, John.
As the first woman elected majority leader of the Arizona State Senate in 1972, Sandra and John O´Connor brought many decision-makers to their home where they were treated to western hospitality that often included an informal, home-cooked meal. In a relaxed and convivial atmosphere, legislators were encouraged to reach consensus on issues vital to the state, even reaching across party lines to write legislation. Nationally, the house had significance as O´Connor was interviewed there for the U.S. Supreme Court.
The house also played a world role, as Justice and John O'Connor introduced many international luminaries to Arizona living by entertaining them in their home. Once it became apparent that the house could be reassembled and relocated in Tempe´s Papago Park, Justice O´Connor envisioned that it once again could become a place for people to gather to solve problems affecting Arizona and the nation. |
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My fellow Arizonans,
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Sandra Day O´Connor
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As we start the mid-term voting season, please remember voting is the most important vehicle citizens have to impact civic actions and decisions. This year you have the opportunity to make your voice heard in the races for Governor, U.S. Senator, members of Congress, Attorney General and other important positions, as well as on 10 ballot propositions and several judicial positions.
Starting Oct. 7, early ballots are available for the general election. I urge you to use the links in this newsletter to learn more about these elections and the candidates. Please exercise your civic right to vote, and encourage your friends and family to do the same.
Sincerely,
Sandra Day O'Connor |
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IMPORTANT DATES
also see http://www.azsos.gov/election/2010/info/ImportantDates.htm
| GENERAL ELECTION |
November 2, 2010 (Tuesday) |
| • Register to Vote Closes |
Oct. 4, 2010 |
| • Early/absentee Voting |
Begins Oct. 7, 2010 |
| • Request Vote by Mail Ballot |
Request ballot now at website of your County Recorder
Maricopa County
All other counties |
| • Last day to request an early ballot |
Oct. 22, 2010 |
| • Last day to mail an early ballot |
Oct. 28, 2010 (must be received by 7 p.m. on Nov. 2) |
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FAQs
Why does this mid-term election affect me?
Arizona voters will choose the Governor, a United States Senator, all 8 of our Representatives to the U.S. Congress, one Senator and two Representatives from each District to the Arizona Legislature, the Arizona Attorney General, and the Superintendent of Public Instruction. These elected officials will make decisions that affect every aspect of your life. THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO ELECT CANDIDATES WHO REPRESENT YOUR VIEWS. |
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Don't I still have time to think about this election?
Time is of the essence! Early ballots are available beginning Oct. 7, and you can even have one mailed to your house. You can vote on your schedule – as long as you mail your early ballot back by Oct. 28 or bring it in to the polls on election day, Nov. 2. That gives more than three weeks to research the candidates and other ballot measures so you are confident with your choices.
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Who is running for office in my District (congressional and legislative)? What District am I in?
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How do I find out where candidates stand on issues that are important to me?
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The Citizens Clean Elections 2010 Commission Candidate Statement Pamphlet contains brief explanations from each candidate about why they would like your vote. |
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Horizon, the Channel 8/PBS public affairs show, has a great webpage that includes copies of their televised candidate debates. |
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The Arizona Capitol Times has a new election coverage page (some links require registration) this year with information on all the races. |
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The Arizona Republic asked all candidates to complete a questionnaire, and the answers of those who responded are posted online. |
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I don't understand the ballot propositions, and I don't know who all the judicial candidates are, so why should I vote on them?
If you don't vote, someone else will – and you may not like the result. There are many online resources that make it easier than ever to learn about ballot propositions and judges so you can do as much research as you'd like before you use your right to vote. Here are two you can check out.
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Where do I vote?
Polling places are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on election day. Confirm your polling place location by going to the County Recorder´s website for your county.
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What I.D. do I need to vote?
You must present 1 form of I.D. (not expired) that shows your name, address and photo or 2 forms of I.D. that show your name and address. Acceptable picture I.D. is valid Arizona driver´s license, Arizona non-operating identification, passport, tribal I.D. other government issued I.D. Acceptable non-picture I.D. is utility bill, vehicle registration, current voter registration card, bank statement, Indian census card.
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What else can I do to help?
Please send this e-mail to your friends and family and encourage them to vote, too -- it´s our right and responsibility to elect the leaders who will turn civil talk into civic action!
REDISTRICTING: THE MOST IMPORTANT PROCESS MANY PEOPLE HAVEN'T HEARD OF
Every 10 years, after a US Census, Arizona redraws the district boundaries for legislative and congressional districts. The district boundaries determine which candidates you can vote for to represent you. In districts where one party has a clear majority, it is likely that their candidate will win the seat. In the past, some districts have been "safe" Republican districts while others have been "safe" Democratic districts. In Arizona today, based on party registration, only 4 out of 30 state legislative districts are "competitive." Under the Arizona Constitution, the districts are drawn by a 5 person Independent Redistricting Commission. Four Commissioners are selected by Democratic and Republican legislative leadership, and the 5th must be an "Independent" selected by the first 4 to serve as Chair of the Committee. These positions are open to any Arizona voter who meets the qualifications set forth in the Constitution. Qualifications and applications are available at www.arizona-redistricting-nominations.com.
We need objective and fair minded Commissioners on the Independent Redistricting Commission. If you or someone you know qualifies and is interested in this very important position, please go to www.arizona-redistricting-nominations.com for more information. APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY OCT. 15, 2010. |
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