One of the biggest topics in the world of journalism is that of the ongoing presidential race. Tensions are very high between the Democratic and Republican Party currently as candidates argue over why they are the best, why everyone else is the worst and why it’s disgusting to go to the bathroom. As a new and respectable adult who talks about pressing adulty-things such as the economy and briefcases, it’s important to know how to do what adults do: participating in politics.
What is a primary election?
This is the election that decides who will be the political nominees that represent each party in the general presidential election. Think of it as voting off all the other singers until there are two left in American Idol. Florida has adopted one the four possible primary elections: a closed primary. This means that only registered Republicans can vote for a Republican nominee, and the same is true with the Democrats. So if you are a Republican who has your eyes set on a Democrat, you need to do the ol’ switcheroo and register as a Democrat to vote for who you want. The primary election for Florida is on March 15th, at this time you will cast your vote at a polling place/station.
Wait, how do you even register?
Fill out this handy dandy application and address it to Leon County Supervisor of Elections right here in the beautiful city of Tallahassee (envelope and stamp not included), or you can hand deliver it. You must have your registration form postmarked or hand delivered by February 16th in order to vote in the primary, or you will later cry about how your procrastination lead to your preferred candidate not being elected.
For all the adrenaline junkies who crave suspense (and for all the forgetful foxes): even if you miss the registration for the upcoming primaries, you still have a chance to play adult and register before the much-anticipated general election coming soon this November. The registration deadline for this bad boy is October 11th.
Who are these people anyway?
Democratic Party
Hilary Clinton: Former Secretary of State who lost the primary against Obama back in 2008 (this is her take two). She wants to strengthen the Affordable Care Act. She believes that deportation should be waived for some immigrants, such as the parents of American citizens or lawful residents.
Bernie Sanders: A Democratic socialist senator who wants to break up big banks, raise taxes on the wealthy and cut taxes for the middle class.
Republican Party
Jeb Bush: Former governor of Florida who wishes to expand rights for gun owners and strengthen America’s ties with Israel.
Ben Carson: A former neurosurgeon who has said that legalizing medical marijuana can be beneficial to those who need it and thinks there should not be many rules regarding gun control for all except mentally ill and convicts.
Chris Christie: Governor of New Jersey who wishes to take away the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, and replace it. He still holds on to conservative ideals of marriage, but respects the Supreme Court’s decision.
Ted Cruz: Senator from Texas and Tea Party favorite who wants to end Common Core and increase and toughen the sanctions in Iran.
Carly Fiorina: The only female of the Republicans running, she believes in full access to guns and, in regards to immigration, and wants to pass the DREAM Act.
John Kasich: A former congressmen and the current Governor of Ohio, he has been known to discuss themes of prison and criminal justice reform and believes in climate change.
Marco Rubio: A Florida senator who talks of wanting to increase the president’s power in regards to combat issues in Islamic State. He also does believe in climate change, just not the idea that man is what is causing it.
Donald Trump: Popular culture businessman and reality TV show star (catchphrase: “you’re fired”) who aims to “Make America great again,” by cutting government spending and calling phony to climate control.
And, of course, world peace.
Courtesy: SheLoves Magazine