On Tuesday, November 2, I hope you will join us to vote for governor, members of the state Senate and Assembly and local school board members.

This is our opportunity to make sure that the Jewish community is taken seriously by the elected officials who have direct impact on our everyday lives, from school funding and security to taxes and to many other concerns of klal Yisrael. When we vote, elected officials take note.

Our vote and our voice helped secure millions in state funding for security, nurses, support services and STEM teachers through the efforts of Teach NJ. This funding is crucial to our schools and families, and the November 2 election is our opportunity to make our voice heard.

Now that New Jersey has early voting and vote by mail, there is no excuse not to vote. From October 23 to 31, you can vote early at any early voting site in your county. You can request to vote by mail today. On election day, Tuesday, November 2, polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 pm.

Legislators seek out communities that show up. Every vote counts. It’s that simple. Let’s make sure our community stands out.