Election Day
by Nicole MartÃnez
We all can agree that 2020 has been a rough year. From a pandemic to social protests against racism and politics, it seems as if we have seen it all. However, there is one more challenge that must be overcome and that in one way or another (believe me or not) affects us all. It is no secret that the United States is facing one of the most crucial moments of its history. Election day is approaching, and there are many things at stake that threaten the development of the country.
For every country, not just the US, elections are crucial as they allow citizens to vote for their favorite candidates and reaffirm the principles of democracy, citizens being equal before the law, and having equal access to legislative processes. Yet what makes the US elections so important is that both candidates, Trump and Biden, are opposite mirrors, which means that their government programs and approaches to problems contradict in every possible way. This time there is not going to be a middle-point; people will need to vote for the candidate that best matches their interests and worries, even though they might not like all of its proposals. In addition to the problem, the fact that the United States occupies such a central place in stabilizing the global system makes the election much more vital. As John Ikenberry said, " internationally, it is a world-historical moment. America’s role in the world, and the organization of the global system, is also on the ballot." The verdict of the elections has the power of determining the way the world is going to keep advancing. The power the US has on it makes it possible that the result of the elections might bring an economic crisis accompanied by several international reforms that regulate the way the world works.
Leaving that aside, it is time to concentrate on what is really at stake in this election. One of the most straightforward things that are at risk is democracy and the balance of power between government institutions. During President Trump's administration, he has openly defied Congress and the courts and dismissed electoral norms. His return to power would mean the abolishment of the institutions of law and what remains of the founders' checks and balances, meaning the destruction of democracy. Furthermore, the inept response of the government to the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the harsh reality of US health care. The COVID response shows so clearly the deep problems with the American system, their health care infrastructure, the income inequality, and racial problems that persist. People are now more conscious than ever that the deep inequalities and breaks of the system are things to be considered in the next elections. Finally, one of the things that are at risk is racial violence and national divisions. Probably one of the most relevant topics through this year is the racial violence that has aroused in the country. From the death of George Floyd to the movement of Black Lives Matter, United States' candidates have been forced to make policies and guarantees that protect the lives of everyone in the country, going from the most vulnerable populations to the more recognizable as African Americans. It is no doubt that the elections hold a major role in determining the rights of its citizens and reassuring that the crimes committed throughout history don't occur again.
On the other hand, it is important to mention what the main aspects are in which the candidates' policies are determined, and that can be a determining point for people that plan to vote.
Immigration
Health Care
Climate Change
Trade and Economy
Criminal Justice Reform
Finally, I just wanted to end the article by saying why voting is important and why although we can't vote yet, it is important to be informed about what is happening in your country regarding politics. Voting is the mechanism that allows you to be part of decision-making that affects your life and guarantees that you are part of your country's government. Voting is the only way of reaffirming that the power of a country relies on its people and that your opinion matters. To end, I recommend you all to inform yourselves about your country and the political decisions that are being taken by politicians. So the day when you can finally vote, you will do it with responsibility and not ignorance.
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