As the 2024 California Presidential Primary Elections quickly draw to a close, all citizens must voice their concerns by exercising their right to vote.
In the primary elections, voters determine which candidates at the federal, state and local levels will run for office in the November general elections. California citizens can also call for the removal of an elected official or directly add, repeal or amend parts of the California Constitution without approval from the state legislature by voting on ballot propositions and initiatives.
“You have to vote so your voice is heard,” AP and Humanities US History teacher Anysia Leveratt said. “Especially with local elections, it’s important to ensure that what’s happening at the government level is something you’re supporting.”
This year, there are 11 candidates and two propositions on the ballot for Irvine voters. At the state level, California Proposition 1 would provide funding to support houseless people, veterans and those with behavioral health issues, including substance use disorders. Locally, Measure D would divide Irvine into six city council districts, each with one elected council member.
“The language of propositions can be confusing, and a lot of times, people end up voting based on the names of the propositions instead of thinking about their implications,” AP Government and Humanities World History teacher Vadim Rubin said. “Look into who supports and opposes the propositions and where the funding is coming from.”
Existing online resources such as Ballotpedia.org and the VOTE411, which are run by nonpartisan, nonprofit organizations, provide voters with information about each proposition and each candidate’s plan or agenda. Conducting research can help voters make informed decisions when they cast their ballots.
“Before you vote, talk to others to get a variety of opinions and have a variety of news sources that you follow for both local and national politics,” Rubin said. “Think about your values. Think about what the candidates stand for and if they align with what you believe in.”
For all registered voters, make sure to postmark your mail-in ballot or drop it off at your nearest polling place by this Tuesday. To find the nearest polling place, visit www.sos.ca.gov/elections/polling-place.
