Democracy & Voting Rights
Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy and the fundamental right upon which all our civil liberties rest. The ACLU works to protect and expand Americansʼ freedom to vote.
What you need to know
30 days prior
Deadline to register to vote before an election
15-3 days
Early voting period prior to Election Day
11 days prior
Deadline for returning an absentee ballot before Election Day
Learn your rights, research the candidates, and make a plan to vote in the 2026 election. Remember, early voting is October 19-31 and Election Day is November 3.
The ACLU of SC works in the courts, legislature, and the community to uphold the rights of South Carolina voters. We believe that each vote should count equally, voters shouldn’t face undue and unlawful impediments to voting, and communities should have the tools they need to organize, mobilize, and inform local voters.
Looking for Election Day information? Check out our Voting Information Center.
In the Courts
We go to court to defend voters' rights and to uphold the principle that voters choose our leaders, not the other way around. Catch up on the latest in our landmark voting rights cases on our Cases page.
In the Legislature
We support the advancement of legislation that restores the voting rights of previously disenfranchised people, increases access to the polls for voters, and ensures elections are free and fair. We oppose legislation that disenfranchises voters, reduces democratic participation, and insulates elected officials from the will of their constituents.
In the Community
We work to provide resources for both individual voters and community groups in order to maximize voter preparedness and participation in elections.
The Latest
2026 SC House Candidate Survey: District 64
2026 SC House Candidate Survey: District 116
Cases, Campaigns & Legislation
ACLU-SC v. State Election Commission (FOIA)
S.C. Republican Party v. Bolchoz
Take Action
Today, years of hard-fought civil liberty protections are under threat.
To influence lawmakers, we need everyone to get involved.
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