The Midterm Elections: Finding Your Voice in Today’s American Politics.
The midterm elections are just 4 weeks away, and the stakes are high, as these elections will shape American politics for years to come.
At the congressional level, all 435 members of the House of Representatives are on the ballot, as well as 35 seats in the Senate. Currently, Republicans control both chambers of Congress, but there is talk of a “blue wave” coming. Nonetheless, the party that controls Congress has a lot of say in the direction our country progresses.
Although these federal level elections are important, we cannot forget about the many local elections that will also be taking place across the country on election day. It is easy to let local elections slip by, as they are not as present in the media as congressional elections, but local elections matter. No level of government has more direct responsibility for our everyday lives and communities than the local government. Further, voting in local elections and holding elected officials accountable can help create momentum for changes to be made across the country.
If the 2016 election taught us anything, it is that elections matter. The midterm elections are notorious for having a lower voter turnout than the presidential election, with only around 40% of eligible voters showing up at the polls. Further, millennial voters are difficult to depend on to show up to vote because they often lack a sense of urgency. However, Trump’s 63% disapproval rating from millennials offers promise for a higher overall turnout rate this November than in the past.
Students, faculty, and staff across BU are talking about the importance of voting and political engagement this November. Here is what they have to say:
- “Voting is the most beautiful expression of our democracy. By voting, we are not only exercising our democratic power, but thanking those before us who ensured that we could wield this power today. Whatever your viewpoint, the most important thing you can do for our country is tell your elected officials where you stand.” – Zev Braun, a second-year MPH candidate at the BU School of Public Health
- “Registering to vote is only one way to be nimble in this time of political discourse and activism. I encourage you to remain aware of other just-in-time opportunities – lectures, public rallies, discussions, and activities – that allow you to reflect on the campus, national, and global political climates.” – Dean Elmore, Associate Provost and Dean of Students, in his recent note to the BU community
- “We all have to step up and push for the progress and compassion that creates the conditions that allow people to thrive —or watch real harm come to the most vulnerable among us. This year, despite Massachusetts’ progressive reputation, there is a real chance that our transgender community will lose basic nondiscrimination protections. Voting ‘Yes on 3’ this November is just a simple way to have a positive impact on the lives of thousands of vulnerable people here in Massachusetts and send a powerful message about the kind of world you want to live in.” – Michelle Samuels, Communications Senior Writer and Editor at the BU School of Public Health
Why should you vote?
Voting and health are inextricably linked. In Dean Galea’s recent Dean’s Note titled Health is an Extension of Politics, he states that “just as elections can deepen and codify injustice, they can also be instrumental in advancing progress.” With the midterm elections this November gearing up to be among the most significant in our country’s history, this idea has never been clearer. These elections have the opportunity to determine the Trump administration’s ability to carry out its agenda for the next two years. Political decisions touch nearly every aspect of our daily lives, so having an active voice in these decisions is critical for the betterment of our health, communities, and country. As Dean Galea suggests, by voting this November, you have the opportunity to support politics that promote health rather than undermine it as we have so often seen throughout the Trump era.
Further, voting is a privilege that generations of Americans have struggled to win and many are continuing to fight for today due to voter suppression. For those of us who are able to vote, we have the power and agency to use our privilege to positively impact those who do not have this same privilege. By voting, you are not only showing commitment to yourself and what you believe in, but you are showing commitment to your friends and neighbors. Though a given issue on the ballot may not directly affect you, it likely greatly affects many other people around you. By voting at the polls, we are able to recognize and honor the many connections we have with those around us.
What can you do to get politically involved this Fall?
Register
Registering to vote is one of many ways to get politically involved. By registering, you are giving yourself the opportunity to have a voice in American politics. The deadline to register to vote in Massachusetts is October 17th. If you are planning to vote in a different state election, registration deadlines may vary.
Become Informed
Whether you are able to vote or not, becoming informed about the political issues surrounding our country is critical. Doing so allows you to reflect on your personal values, as well as what you hope to see in your community, across our country, and around the world.
Volunteer
Volunteering with organizations you are passionate about is another great way to have your voice heard and help elevate others’ voices in the process. By spreading the word about important political issues, you are also encouraging others to vote and become politically involved.
VOTE
Voting is the most important aspect of civic engagement. By voting, you are able to express your opinion and have your voice heard. You are able to fight for protections for people around you and to support those who are not able to vote themselves. By voting, you are making a difference.
The midterm elections will be held on November 6th. No matter how you do it, just vote.