Rabbi Yaakov Hopfer recorded an urgent message on behalf of the Vaad HaRabbonim, calling on every eligible member of the community to make sure they are properly registered before today’s voter registration deadline.

In the message, Rabbi Hopfer stressed that the upcoming primary election is “an absolutely critical moment for our community” and reminded residents that Maryland has a closed primary system, meaning voters can only participate in a party’s primary if they are registered with that party.

The Vaad is urging everyone, including anyone who will turn 18 by November 3, to verify their registration status and make any necessary party changes before the deadline.

Rabbi Hopfer emphasized that changing party registration is not a reflection of one’s hashkafah or personal beliefs, but simply a practical step to ensure the ability to vote in the races that will have the greatest impact on the community