by Julia Oscar

There is a presidential election coming up November 3rd. If you are eligible to vote, register on this site. If you are registered to vote in Mercer county you can apply for a mail in ballot here. If not you can find your county’s application here. If you are voting, get your ballot in as soon as possible. 

This is an essential election to vote in because there is a potential for great change and progression in America. In May, the Black Lives Matter movement gained traction due to George Floyd’s death. Protests throughout the country began. During this period, Trump referred to the people fighting for their rights and others as “thugs”, while Joe Biden promised he would “seek to heal the racial wounds that have long plagued this country.” If Trump wins this election he will continue to violate human rights and attempt to destroy our democracy. For many, Joe Biden was not their first pick but he is more open-minded and progressive than Trump and his presidency will be far less dangerous for minorities and immigrants. Another reason the results of this election will be important is due to Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s death (Rest in Peace), a new Supreme Court Justice will need to be appointed. It is possible that Trump’s new appointment to replace her will be blocked by the Senate as Obama’s pick was in his second term. If Trump is able to pick the RBG’s replacement, the Supreme Court which was already leaning right (5:4) will be even more so (6:3). This conservative majority could be dangerous for many people, not just minorities and immigrants. 

One very controversial topic right now is abortion rights. Many conservatives want Roe vs. Wade, which guarantees abortion rights, to be reversed. Women would lose their right to safe and affordable abortions. Along with this there are many decisions that the Supreme Court makes every year concerning human rights. Biden’s pick for a Supreme Court will be more lenient and in favor of human rights. 

If you have the privilege to vote in this election it is important that you use it to make the correct and informed decision. A vote for third party would be a vote for Trump.