As Election Day—Nov. 3—grows closer, you’ve probably found yourself staring at a blue ballot book and feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you’re even tempted to just toss it aside and never look at it again. I get it. But voting in the midterm elections is one of the most important things you can do as a citizen. Let me tell you why.
What Are the Midterms?
Midterm elections occur halfway through every four-year presidential election cycle. During them, all 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives are up for election. Representatives serve two-year terms and are responsible for introducing, debating and voting on legislation.
At the same time, 35 of the 100 seats in the U.S. Senate are also on the ballot. Senators serve six-year terms and help approve or block laws passed by the House.
Colorado voters will also elect state-level officials, including the governor, secretary of state, state treasurer, attorney general and several other positions.Â
In addition to candidates, voters will decide on state and local ballot measures, amendments and propositions. These proposals address issues such as taxes, government spending, education funding and state laws, all of which can directly affect your daily life. Ballot measures reach the ballot through either citizen initiatives or legislative action.
Why Are the Midterms Important?
I just threw a lot of information at you. Maybe you’re still asking, “Why does this election matter so much?”, and that’s OK.
Essentially, the senators and representatives elected during the midterms are the people who represent you at the federal level. They make decisions on issues that affect everything from the economy to education to healthcare. That’s why it’s important to elect people who reflect your values and priorities.
The same goes for ballot measures. These decisions can determine how much you pay in taxes and even what changes are made to your state’s constitution. In Colorado, for example, Amendment 81 would require state and local law enforcement agencies to notify federal immigration authorities, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), within 72 hours of filing charges against an individual if they cannot determine that the person is lawfully present in the United States. If approved, the measure would amend the Colorado Constitution. Voting gives you a direct say in policies such as Amendment 81 that shape you and your neighbors’ everyday life.
How do I research?
You should’ve received a 2026 State Ballot Information Booklet with your ballot. This outlines every state-level ballot measure, what a yes or no vote would mean and arguments for and against the measure. If you did not receive a booklet, an online version should be available through your state government website.
For further research on local and candidate information, I love to use Ballotpedia. This website provides easy-to-read explanations of the measures and candidate policies.
Your voice matters, and so does your vote. In fact, individual votes often carry even more weight during midterm elections because voter turnout is typically lower than it is during presidential election years. This year, your ballot becomes even more influential.Â
So don’t toss that blue ballot book aside. Take the time to research the issues, fill out your ballot before Nov. 3rd, and make your voice heard.