Midterm elections will be on Tuesday, November 8th, 2022, and they determine the future makeup of the House of Representatives. They are called “midterm elections” because they occur in the middle of a president’s term. Midterm elections are important because they are the only direct vote that citizens have in government. In addition, in such a politically divisive world, the party that controls each branch of government determines the future of our country. It is crucial to know what will be on the ballots this year and what the candidates have to offer.

Abortions

Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade, it is up to states to choose whether or not they will let a woman choose to get an abortion. On the midterm election ballots, five states will ask voters whether or not they would like the right to abortion. These five states are: California, Kentucky, Montana, Michigan, and Vermont. Depending on how people vote in these states will determine the legislatures, who can then decide whether or not that state will allow for abortions. 

LGBTQ+ Rights

Also since the overturning of Roe v. Wade, some government officials are attempting to restrict other rights such as same-sex marriage. Furthermore, there has been more legislation against the LGBTQ+ community over the past year, such as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill. In order to protect rights for the LGBTQ+ community, it is important to vote for a politician in favor of this. 

The Environment

Around the globe, many countries face problems regarding climate change. The United States has a chance to alleviate the effects by dedicating funds for this cause, and electing officials who prioritize addressing climate change. In August, the Clean Energy and Climate Investments bill was passed which gave the most funding to climate change ever. Many other bills can continue to be passed if the correct people are elected. 

Gun Laws

There have been more mass shootings in the United States than there have been days in 2022. Gun laws are both present in national and state governments. States such as New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Hawaii have the least firearm mortality rates as well as lowest gun ownership. On the other hand, states such as Mississippi, Louisiana, Wyoming, Alabama, and Missouri have the most firearm mortality rates as well as highest gun ownership. Guns are currently the leading cause to death for children and teens in the United States. Right now, the only way to lessen the amount of gun-related deaths in the United States is to vote for legislators that support gun-protection policies.

The Economy

Between COVID-19 and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the United States economy has not been very good. This is evident because of the rising gas rates. Since the legislative branch deals with budgeting and other economic issues, they can fix our economy through different bills.

Regardless of what you believe in, it is important to vote so that your voice is heard!