As political tensions rise in the United States, the midterm elections taking place Nov. 8 have added to the nation’s stress. Midterm elections will sway the power of the Senate and House of Representatives in the way of either major political party — Democratic or Republican.
THE HOUSE AND THE SENATE
During the midterm elections, people will vote for seats to be filled in the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate is in charge of voting on bills, motions and treaties, among other issues, according to the Senate website. The House of Representatives passes federal laws, according to its website.
The House of Representatives seats 435 members, dispersed among the 50 states corresponding to their total population. The House of Representatives holds elections every 2 years, meaning that at this moment all 435 seats are up for grabs.
On the contrary, the Senate is made up of only 100 members, 2 for each state. Unlike the Representatives, Senators are chosen every 6 years. In this election, only 35 seats are open for potential new members.
CALIFORNIA MIDTERMS
California is the state with the most representatives in the House. 52 seats will be up for grabs in this election and one for the Senate. For the Senate, the candidates for the election are Alex Padilla (D), who is currently in the seat, and Mark Meuser (R). Along with those races, voters will choose a Secretary of State, Governor, Attorney General, Lieutenant Governor and Los Angeles Mayor. In the preliminary elections, Californians voted to recall the current San Francisco District Attorney, Chesa Boudin.
CANDIDATES’ STANCES RAISE CONTROVERSY
According to the Cal Matter website, candidates’ stances on key issues of abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, gun reform and inflation have raised political tensions with both voters and candidates. Candidates are expected to target voters who already agree with their stance.
These elections will determine the political future of the states and the entire nation for the next 2-6 years. As preliminary elections end and the primary elections begin, the top candidates will begin vying for voters’ approval as they seek representation and power.
