Never underestimate the power of the ballot.

One of the greatest strengths of America is that all citizens are provided a voice through the voting booth. And every vote does count! Many an election has been won by a handful of votes or even just one vote.

But before you can vote in an election, you must be registered. Registering to vote is an easy process. In fact, Michigan was the first state in the nation to implement "motor/voter" registration, allowing residents to register to vote at any Secretary of State branch office. Today, over 88 percent of all eligible voters are registered.

To register, you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old by election day and a Michigan resident. Any Secretary of State branch office or county, city or township clerk's office can register you. In addition, specified agencies providing services through the the Department of Human Services, the Department of Community Health, the Michigan Jobs Commission, and military recruitment centers also provide voter registration services.

You may also register to vote by mail - forms are available at your local clerk's office or from the Secretary of State web site. If you register to vote by mail, and you have moved to a new voting jurisdiction or are registering for the very first time, you must vote in person in the first election in which you participate. The only exceptions are if you are 60 years old or older, disabled as defined by law or temporarily living overseas.

You also have the option of registering to vote when you renew your driver license by mail. Eligible drivers receive a voter registration application in the mail with their driver license renewal information.

As you can see, there are several options for you to choose from when registering to vote. But no matter where or how you register, you will vote in your assigned precinct in your hometown.

Help keep America strong - register to vote and then vote on election day.