Operation Healthy Vote gets underway Friday at King’s Daughters Medical Center. This voter registration drive is part of a statewide initiative to mobilize the more than 60,000 hospital employees in the state and make them influential participants in the upcoming elections.

The hospital encourages patients and visitors to take advantage of the opportunity, as well, said hospital marketing director David Culpepper in a written statement.

The registration drive will take place in the front outpatient lobby from 7-10 a.m. and in the back hallway by the cafeteria entrance from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

“This year, hospitals and healthcare workers have the opportunity to shape the direction and future of healthcare in our state for the next decade,” said Culpepper. “There are critical issues on the table that affect your hospital and others in the state. These issues will be determined by the individuals elected to serve as governor, lieutenant governor and legislators in this election.”

Voters must be registered by July 8 in order to participate in the primary elections Aug. 6. Registration is required by Oct. 7 in order to cast a ballot in the Nov. 5 general elections.

“Your informed voice and vote are powerful tools and deserve to be heard,” Culpepper said in the statement.

“Make sure you are registered to vote, know where your polling place is and know the issues.”

For more information on the registration drive, visit operationhealthyvote.com.