In addition to voting for Joe Biden’s successorAmericans will vote too congressional candidates and about the future of new citizen initiatives and projects that benefit the community, including advocating for abortion or LGBTQ+ rights.
Follow the US elections minute by minute here:
9.30 | Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance votes in Cincinnati with his wife. “Look, I feel good. You never know until you know, but I feel good about this race,” he announced, assuring that he will also travel to Palm Beach, Florida, to accompany Donald Trump while the results are known.
8:00 | States such as Arizona, Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin open their polling places to voters.
7:00 | Other states open polling places. Some of them are Alabama, Delaware, Washington, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
6:00 | Constituencies in six states (Connecticut, Maine, New York, Kentucky, Virginia, and New Jersey) begin receiving voters. Half an hour later, Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina, the so-called “zipper” state.which should be the key to determining who will occupy the White House.
5:00 | Voting begins in the town of Dixville Notch, New Hampshire, and the first results of the elections were announced. A tie with three votes for each candidate. At this moment, approximately 244 million Americans are called to vote at the polls in the various states, while 80 million of them have already voted in advance, both at the polls and by mail, as confirmed by the University of Florida.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Political Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into the upcoming U.S. elections, which promise to be incredibly impactful for the future of the nation. Joining me is Dr. Emily Tran, a political scientist with expertise in electoral trends and civic engagement. Welcome, Dr. Tran!
Dr. Emily Tran (ET): Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such a crucial topic.
TNE: The elections this year are especially significant as Americans will not only cast their votes for Joe Biden’s successor, but they’ll also be voting for congressional candidates. Why do you think these congressional races are so vital in this context?
ET: Great question! Congressional races play a pivotal role in shaping policy and governance. The next Congress will influence everything from healthcare to social justice initiatives. Voters’ choices will directly impact legislative priorities and how effectively the new president can implement their agenda.
TNE: That’s a very important point. Additionally, you mentioned social justice initiatives. Can you elaborate on how citizen initiatives, particularly regarding abortion and LGBTQ+ rights, are pivotal in this election cycle?
ET: Absolutely! This election cycle reflects a broader societal push for change. Many states have proposed citizen initiatives related to abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. These initiatives empower voters to take a stand on critical social issues and directly influence state laws. The results can signal a shift in public sentiment that lawmakers might not be able to ignore moving forward.
TNE: It seems like these issues are resonating with a significant portion of the electorate. How do you see these topics shaping voter turnout?
ET: Social issues often mobilize voters, especially younger demographics who are passionate about causes like reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ equality. We’ve seen that when these issues are on the ballot, turnout can increase substantially. Voters feel that not only are their individual rights at stake, but also the rights of their communities.
TNE: That’s an interesting insight! As we monitor these elections closely, what should voters keep in mind when evaluating candidates?
ET: Voters should consider not just party affiliation but also a candidate’s track record and stance on crucial issues. Engaging with candidates’ policies through debates, town halls, and local forums is essential. Educating oneself about where candidates stand on issues like healthcare, education, and social rights can make a significant difference in making informed choices at the polls.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Tran! It’s clear that the upcoming elections will be a defining moment for American democracy, with implications that extend beyond just the presidential race. What final thoughts would you like to share with our audience?
ET: Every vote matters, and participation is key. This election is not just about choosing leaders but also about affirming values and priorities. I encourage everyone to stay informed, engage in discussions, and make their voices heard at the ballot box. Our collective future depends on it.
TNE: Wise words, indeed! Thank you for your time today, Dr. Tran. We appreciate your insights and look forward to seeing how these elections unfold.
ET: Thank you for having me! I’m looking forward to the results, too.