The 2020 presidential election will be a historic one. Regardless of any political leanings, this election truly represents the changing state of American democracy and politics. This past year has had a notable Democratic slate, with 28 total Democrats launching campaigns. 25 candidates have now dropped out of the race, including Elizabeth Warren, Pete Buttigieg, Michael Bloomberg, Cory Booker, Kamala Harris, Tom Steyer, Andrew Yang, and Kirsten Gillibrand. Here’s a quick look at the current Democratic candidates:
Bernie Sanders
This Vermont senator has a progressive platform of Medicare for All, the Green New Deal, empowering the working class, College for All, workplace rights, tax reform, etc. His progressive record has been extremely consistent over his four decades in politics, and he is extremely popular among young people spawning movements such as “Bros for Bernie.”
Here is his campaign website.
Joe Biden
President Barack Obama’s previous vice president, Biden has built his campaign on a platform of centrism, rebuilding the middle class, expanding the Affordable Care Act with a public option, etc. He has had around six decades worth of political experience, with a less consistent record and early experience with Republican politicians. He has also been accused of inappropriate behavior by a number of women.
Here is his campaign website.
Tulsi Gabbard
Despite only having two delegates, this Hawaiian congresswoman has pushed on with her campaign and platform on environmental protection, healthcare for all, veteran care, criminal justice reform, etc. However, she does have a notable past of supporting anti-LGBTQ laws, and has since apologized for those actions. She also had a significant career in the military, serving in the Hawaii Army National Guard before running for public office.
Here is her campaign website.
I encourage you all to do your own research and make an informed decision on who you want to represent and lead this country. Research the past and present actions of any candidate you support, because there are some less favorable things I could have said about some of these candidates. Your civic duty and right to vote is vital to upholding our democracy. At a time when voter suppression is still alive and well, it is essential that young people get out vote.
I’ve included the primary election dates for the tri-state area. Make sure you know your polling place and all other voting info at https://www.vote.org/.
Ohio: March 17
Kentucky: May 19
Indiana: May 5