This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at JMU chapter.

Only several days into the year 2020 and we are already witnessing events that will change the course of history. Australian wildfires due to the increasing threat of climate change, high tensions between the US and Iran, and a 6.5 earthquake that hit Puerto Rico. What else could be in store for this year? The 2020 presidential election.

Based on the United States’ previous history with presidential elections, it shouldn’t be any less dramatic than the rest. However, this election may have high stakes for the future of this country and its relationship with the world.

President Trump has made it clear he will not be leaving office quietly. Not long after the House of Representatives voted for his impeachment, Trump landed an attack on Iranian general Qassem Soleimani. The people of America have differing opinions on Trump’s aggressive move, but the Iranian people seem to be in agreement about their feelings for our country.

Come fall, our country will have a big decision to make about who will lead our country. Talk of Donald Trump running for re-election still continue, however, many American voters believe it is time for someone new to take office.

The candidates for the 2020 Election that are receiving the most buzz include:

Joe Biden, former Vice President

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Bernie Sanders, US Senator

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Elizabeth Warren, US Senator

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Andrew Yang, Entrepreneur

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Joe Walsh, Former US Representative

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Bill Weld, Former Governor

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Donald Trump, US President

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However, it is still early in the game. The presidential candidates may change drastically before the national conventions this summer. By then, each party will have chosen a singular nominee for the presidential election.

This is when most a lot of voters begin to pay attention in the election when the party they align with has chosen a nominee. However, I encourage voters to become more active in the processes leading up to that. In order to choose a President that truly represents the people of America and their needs, US citizens must be well informed on each candidate’s platforms.

Voting in this election will determine how America takes its next steps. Crucial steps in our response to climate change as well as our relations with foreign nations. No matter what your political association is, it is important to be informed on what these candidates truly want for our nation and to vote for who represents you and the life you wish to live.

2020 will be an important year, and we should all use our right as voters to change the course of history.

The Importance of Voting in the 2020 Presidential Election

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