Everything else on your ballot, explained

Summary

The video highlights the importance of voting in U.S. elections, focusing not only on the presidential race but also on key down-ballot races like congressional and state-level elections. It explains how control of Congress and state legislatures could impact future policy decisions, including redistricting, abortion laws, and labor rights. The video also emphasizes the importance of local measures, including healthcare, minimum wage, gun control, and marijuana legalization. Judges' elections are also highlighted, noting the influence of special interest groups. Even if voters dislike presidential candidates, their votes matter for shaping broader political outcomes.

Takeaways

• 🗳️ Many voters, especially young people, might stay home this election, with a lower percentage planning to vote compared to previous elections.
• 🤔 The election isn't just about the president; Americans are also deciding on other elected officials and important ballot measures.
• 🏛️ Republicans have controlled Congress since 2010 and have blocked many of Obama's initiatives on issues like gun control and immigration.
• 📉 Trump's scandals and attacks on his own party are giving Democratic candidates unexpected momentum, potentially putting control of both the House and Senate in play.
• 🏙️ State governments are also crucial, with 80% of state legislative seats and 12 governorships on the ballot, impacting key policies like abortion and labor unions.
• 🗺️ State legislators elected now will redraw US congressional district boundaries in 2021, giving them long-term influence over national politics.
• 💼 Several states are voting on major policy issues, including health care, minimum wage, gun control, and marijuana legalization.
• 👩‍⚖️ Judges are also on the ballot, and special interest groups are pouring money into these races to influence rulings on key issues like same-sex marriage, coal, and fracking.
• ⚖️ In Kansas, five Supreme Court justices are up for retention, with pro-life activists campaigning to replace judges who ruled to repeal anti-abortion laws.
• 📝 Voters who are disillusioned with the presidential race still have a lot they can influence with their votes in down-ballot races and ballot measures.

Q & A

What is the general sentiment of Americans toward the presidential candidates in this election?

The general sentiment is negative, as many Americans do not like the candidates, which may lead to lower voter turnout.

How does voter enthusiasm among young people compare to previous elections?

A lower percentage of young people said they definitely plan to vote this year compared to the last four general elections.

What other positions besides the presidency are at stake in this election?

In addition to the presidency, Americans will vote on congressional seats, state governments, and important ballot measures.

Why is control of Congress important in this election?

Control of Congress is crucial because it impacts the president's ability to pass legislation. For example, Republicans blocked Obama's agenda on issues like gun control, immigration, and a Supreme Court vacancy.

How have Trump's scandals affected down-ballot races?

Trump's scandals and attacks on his own party have boosted the momentum of Democratic candidates in down-ballot races, making control of both the House and Senate uncertain.

What is the significance of state legislative elections in this cycle?

State legislative elections are significant because the legislators elected will redraw congressional district boundaries in 2021, which will influence national politics for years to come.

What health care measures are on the ballot in some states?

Four states are voting on health care measures, including one proposal in Colorado to create the nation’s first single-payer system.

What are some of the other ballot measures voters will decide on?

Voters in several states will decide on measures related to minimum wage increases, gun control, and the legalization of marijuana.

Why are judicial elections mentioned as important in the script?

Judicial elections are important because special interest groups can influence outcomes, affecting key rulings on issues like same-sex marriage, abortion, and environmental lawsuits.

What is the potential impact of voter decisions on local governance?

Local votes can affect governance of utilities, bond issues, and other items that impact daily life, making local elections crucial as well.