Presidential primary elections are happening now, like right now, in the U.S and this election is crucial (more than ever before) for the wellbeing of our planet. Here’s why:

In 2018, the world’s leading climate scientists have warned us that we have 12 years to keep a rising global temperature at a maximum of 1.5C, beyond which even half a degree will cause a climate catastrophe. 12 years. Read that again. Let that number sink in. To achieve this, there needs to be a collective reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. And yet, in an attempt to push forth President Trump’s agenda of environmental deregulation (which he asserts will spur economic growth…), his administration has rolled back 100’s of environmental standards, regulatory requirements, and policies aimed to curb climate change, and federal funding for science and the environment. 

Simply put, neither we, nor the planet, can afford another four years of an administration that denies climate change and science.

We need elected officials that care about people and the planet, who follow science, embrace environmental protection policies, are actively working towards preparing communities for future environmental challenges, and who do not have close ties with the fossil fuel industry (a top polluter and driver of climate change).

But we need more voters showing up at local, state, and national elections. In the last Presidential election, only 58% of eligible voters exercised their right to vote. And since racially biased election laws make it harder for certain groups to vote, if you have the ability to, it’s imperative that you do. Our votes drive change, are a solution to previous political inaction, and help to dismantle archaic systems. 

But if you’re confused by the United States voting system, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Elections are hard to follow and they come with a lot of jargon. How many elections should I be voting in? What’s the difference between a caucus and a primary? What’s the electoral college? Does my vote count? 

If your memory from history class is a little vague, here’s a quick rundown on voting and how votes impact the planet:

How voting works…

In the U.S., you can vote at the local, state, and national levels.

At every level, it’s important to research each candidates’ stance on policies you care about, where they get their money from, and who endorses them.

Local

Local governments are responsible for what we experience in our day to day life and within our community—from our recycling and composting programs, public parks, pollution prevention, to how we can hold police accountable. You can vote for your District Attorney, Councilmembers, Mayor, Local Officials, Judges, and more.

When are the next Local Elections?

Local elections happen all the time, and typically only 1 out of 5 eligible voters participate in local elections — so your vote has a significant impact! Find upcoming local elections in your area here, and sign up for TurboVote election alerts so you don’t miss any of them.

State

The United States Congress is composed of the House of Representatives and the Senate—both of which are elected by the people, and it’s their job to represent the interest of their constituents (that’s you). The House of Representatives is made up of 435 elected representatives (divided among the 50 states in proportion to their total population) and they are elected every 2 years. The Senate is composed of 100 Senators (2 from each state), who are elected every 6 years. 

The responsibilities of the United States Congress include the power to make laws and provide public funding. Aka any bills or funds that address climate change must be approved by Congress. Aka we need representatives and senators who are willing to fight for the planet, transform the energy sector, and mitigate climate change.

It’s important to know who is representing your district and state at the federal level (Psst. Here’s a cheatsheet), and understand whether you agree with their values and stance on environmental and social policy.

When are the next State Elections?

On November 3, 2020, a total of 470 seats in the U.S. Congress (35 Senate seats and all 435 House seats) are up for election. See here if there are seats up for reelection in your State.

National

The President is responsible for implementing and enforcing the laws written by Congress, appointing key figures of government such as supreme court justices and cabinet members, representing our interests on the international stage, and more. The Presidential electoral process is not an easy one to follow, so here are the cliff notes:

Step 1: Primaries & Caucuses

When running for Presidency, candidates are ultimately trying to win the Republican or Democratic party nomination. But to be considered for the party nomination, a candidate must first be widely elected during caucuses and primary elections. It’s important to vote during the primary election because the candidate with the popular votes will win delegates in each state (these are the people who will select the candidate at the National Convention…confusing, I know).

Ding! Ding! Primary elections are happening now. Find your polling place here. 

• June 23rd, 2020: New York, Virginia, and Kentucky.
• June 30th, 2020: Colorado, Oklahoma, and Utah.

Step 2: National Conventions & General Election

After the primaries and caucuses, the Democrat and Republican parties hold a National Convention in August, where they announce the Presidential nominee to represent their party. This is also when the nominee will announce their choice for Vice President. The nominee then starts campaigning for the General Election.

Step 3: The General Election & The Electoral College

On November 3rd, 2020, people in every state will cast their vote for either the Democrat or Republican presidential candidate. But (here’s another catch…) when casting their vote, people are actually voting towards a group of people (538 people to be exact) called Electors—which make up the Electoral College. The number of Electors in each state equals the number of Senators and Representatives they have in Congress (here’s another cheat sheet). In most states, whichever party wins the popular vote, wins the Electoral College votes for that state. The candidate with 270 Electoral College votes or more wins the election.

When is the next National Election?

November 3rd, 2020. Say it out loud. Put this date in your calendar. Remind your friends. Shout it from a rooftop. This election matters. Are you registered and ready to vote?!

Find all the information you need to vote can here, and learn more about each candidate’s stance on the environment here.

We need responsible leaders who will take action for the planet. And we need it now.