Let’s Talk About Midterm Elections

Alright folks, pull up a chair, grab a snack, and settle in, because we need to talk. 

As I am sure you know by now, the 2018 midterm elections are right around the corner. In early November, citizens across the United States are going to have the chance to vote in both federal and state elections that have the potential to greatly impact the way in which the country operates. While state elections are incredibly important and you should 110% participate in them, the federal election is arguably even more important and has garnered quite a bit of attention. 

Many Americans have been incredibly vocal in their unhappiness with the direction the country seems to be going in, and are taking these elections as an opportunity to elect officials that they believe can change the course of the government. Instances such as the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court have only further fueled people to take this election seriously.

A few quick things to note about the midterms:

1. Democrats need 23 seats to gain control of the House and only 2 seats to gain control of the Senate. 

2. Four women running have the potential to be the first female governors of their state: Janet Mills (D, Maine), Stacey Abrams (D, Georgia), Kristi Noem (R, South Dakota), and Paulette Jordan (D, Idaho). 3. A record 592 women have filed to run for House, Senate, and governor seats this election

4. Depending on your state, you may be able to register to vote in midterms before the age of 18! AND make sure that you are registered for an absentee ballot if you live far from home. 

Finally, let’s go over why it is so important to vote. Midterm elections generally have a much lower voter turnout than presidential elections, especially among young people. These midterm elections are a chance for us to shake things up in Washington and in our states. Instead of complaining about politics and politicians, we can put people in office to change what we don’t like.

Young people need to stop thinking that voting doesn’t make a difference and take action. Listen to Billy Eichner and USE your right to vote. This is your chance to have your voice heard. 

Check to see if you’re registered to vote here and see if your state has online registration here

Gif sources 1, 2, 3, 4

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