Why is Election Day always on the first Tuesday of November?by Kirk Mason (mason@wsbt.com)
(WSBT file photo) The reason Election Day is set on Tuesday was decided years ago. However, much of the rational behind that decision is no longer relevant. Jesse from Mishawaka asked a Good Question: "Why is Election Day always on the first Tuesday of November?" WSBT's Kirk Mason explains. Election Day is not always on the first Tuesday in November. It's always on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. In other words, Election Day cannot be on November 1. The reason for November relates to farming. Congress passed the law naming the date in 1845. At the time, much of our population was farmers and by November harvest season was over. Tuesday was chosen because Monday was seen as a travel day. More than 200 years ago voters didn't have cars to get to polls. Sunday was seen as a day of rest, not a travel day. So why don't we ever vote on November 1? Congress didn't want Election Day falling on All Saints Day, a holy day of obligation for Roman Catholics. Many argue the Tuesday in November tradition is out of date. Some states have even made Election Day a holiday so voters are off from work. Some argue that holding an election on the weekend would increase turnout. Most PopularMore Good Stuff |
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