Anyone who registered to vote by the Oct. 12 at and is 18 years old by Tuesday, Nov. 2 is eligible to vote in today’s election. Voters in Falls Church will be able to cast their votes for the statewide positions of Virginia’s Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and a representative to the Virginia House of Delegates. There are also local elections for the positions on the Falls Church City School Board and City Council, that many Meridian seniors are also eligible to vote in. 

Some of the Class of 2022 have already turned 18, and those who have already passed that milestone are going to exercise their right to vote for the first time. Seniors who registered to vote will be able to vote absentee or in person at one of three voting wards in Falls Church. 

“I feel like it’s good to participate in my civic duty,” said senior Graham Felgar, who is voting in person.

Among the Seniors at Meridian, in person voting is most common. “ I’m voting in person with my parents,” Abigail Meighan shared. 

Meighan was able to register to vote without difficulty, in part due to information provided by school administration on how to register to vote. 

“I think that because the administration told us how to register to vote it was easy and accessible,” she said. “I feel excited to express my opinions and have an input on the changes I wish to see in the world.”  

Other seniors, like Hunter Hicks, were also able to register easily. “The registration process was great . . . it was very thorough,” Hicks said. “I like having a voice, I like having a part of the decision. While living in a representative democracy, it feels good to use my privilege.”

“I think it’s going to be interesting to take a look at the ballot and make my choice,” senior Emil Morin said.  He has volunteered at the polls in past elections and is excited about now participating in the election. “I was a poll worker and always wondered what it was like to make such a big decision.”

Exercising the right to vote for the first time is special, as it is the first time eligible seniors are able to directly voice their opinions on topics. The Lasso wishes eligible seniors luck on this exciting occasion.