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As November rolls around, many students at Mayfield Senior, particularly those who are turning 18 or have just turned 18, are preparing to participate in the upcoming election. Through conversations I have had with several girls, it has become clear that their understanding is primarily focused on the presidential election. This raises an important question: what about the other critical aspects of the election? In addition to the presidential candidates, voters will also be making decisions about congress representatives, state officials, and various other things. It is very important for new voters to understand the significance of these decisions and how they impact their communities. I am here to educate and ensure that young voters are well-informed about what they are voting for and why it matters.
Starting off, everything that a voter is voting for includes all candidates for office, that being: President, Vice President, Senators, House Representatives, State Governors, State Legislators, and Local offices (e.g., mayors, city council members). Along with that, you will also be responsible for voting for Ballot Measures or Propositions. These are proposed laws or amendments to existing laws that require voter approval. They are initiatives which would change state law or allocate state money that every voter has to vote on. Ballot Measures or Propositions can cover a wide range of issues including: Tax measures, zoning changes, environmental regulations, and changes to the state constitution. Similar to ballot measures, there are referendums which allow voters to approve or reject specific legislation acts.
So why does this all matter? Why will this affect you? Voting is not just a duty for US citizens, it is a chance for each and every adult to shape the world they live in. Everything you check off on your ballot, you are choosing a certain leader that is going to make decisions that impact your daily life, including; women’s rights, healthcare, education, and many more. More than just voting on candidates, ballot measures and propositions determine the laws in your state as well as the funding schools near you are receiving. Things like local elections can impact your specific neighborhood, so it is important you research each candidate and pick who you believe will benefit your community the most.
With this information, if you take away one thing, it is that you need to do your research prior to November 5th. If you would like to get a full list of who you are voting for this year, you can go to https://calmatters.org/california-voter-guide-2024/. Furthermore, before election day, make sure you register to vote! You can vote either in person on November 5th, Online by October 21st, or send it in by mail prior to election day. To register to vote visit https://vote.gov/, fill out the basic personal information, and you are set! Voting allows everyone to express their opinions and allows you to create impactful decisions about your communities future. Voting is a powerful tool that helps shape things about your future.
