With Election Day on the horizon, individuals who plan to vote should identify their assigned polling location. The general election will occur on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.

This election day, folks will be voting for the next United States President. Presidential elections are continuously promoted and are perceived as the most significant elections. Selecting a competent candidate who provides a clear vision for the President’s seat is incredibly crucial. However, other elections, including at the local level, are critical, too. Local elections, in particular involve candidates who most closely affect your daily life. The President certainly wields considerable power, but positions such as members of Congress are tasked with creating laws and influencing policy.

Federalism allows for a governmental system that includes a centralized government, state government, and local governments. Local governments tend to affect individuals directly.

In terms of state elections, voters will be given the opportunity to select a candidate that is best suited as a U.S. Senator and congressional representative. Given that senators and representatives are closest to the people, these elections are also important. On another note, folks can choose candidates for justice positions in the New York State Supreme Court.

At the country level, voters will be given the opportunity to select a candidate for public offices, including the legislature and the judicial system. This year, selecting a candidate for the District Attorney is also an option.

At the town and city-level, voters may select a candidate for positions on the localities’ council. Also, individuals are able to vote for town justices, and on amendments.

Recently, the Alumni Center at Buffalo State University became an official polling place. As such, residential students who are considered to live on-campus are welcome to utilize the polling station. This incredible accomplishment facilitates access to voting facilities. Certainly, the more individuals that engage in voting, regardless of political affiliation, the more representative our government becomes. Young people often are least likely to vote, and so, providing a polling site on campus increases the likelihood that more young people will vote.

Ultimately, a democracy allows individuals to express their views and opinions. Voting is one option to contribute to the collective voice. Other options include promoting policies through social media and flyers, utilizing media as a watchdog, and lobbying.