As voters prepare to cast their ballots on Election Day this Tuesday, Common Cause launched its nonpartisan voter protection program. The program will feature nonpartisan poll monitors in Harris and Tarrant Counties, in addition to its bilingual hotline available to all Texas voters as they navigate the election process.

“This is an important election for Texans, and we want to make sure all voters know their rights and know how to cast their ballot,” said Anthony Gutierrez, executive director of Common Cause Texas. “That’s why our friendly, nonpartisan experts and volunteers are available to help voters make their voices heard. We encourage all voters to add 866-OUR-VOTE into their phones so they can call or text if they run into any issues.” 

Voters who encounter any issues can call or text the hotline to connect with experts who can help. The hotline is available in the following languages: 

• ENGLISH: 866-OUR-VOTE / 866-687-8683  
• SPANISH: 888-VE-Y-VOTA / 888-839-8682  
• ASIAN LANGUAGES: 888-API-VOTE / 888-274-8683  
• ARABIC: 844-YALLA-US / 844-925-5287 

Staffed by attorneys and legal experts familiar with the Texas Election Code, the hotline offers live assistance to voters answering questions, addressing concerns, troubleshooting issues, and dispelling misinformation. To visit the election protection website, click here. 

Voters should know: 

• The early voting period lasts until Friday, October 31. 
• Polling locations will be open on Election Day, Tuesday, November 4, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 
• If polls close as voters are waiting in line on Election Day, they should stay in line as their vote will still count.

The program is part of a national, nonpartisan voter assistance effort, coordinated by a coalition of over 100 sponsoring organizations, that began in 2000 after the Bush v. Gore voting confusion. In 2020, more than 46,000 Common Cause volunteers helped answer questions and solve voters’ problems.