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A spirit that is not afraid

EDITORIAL | The importance of midterm elections

(Emily Brett / Graphics Editor)
(Emily Brett / Graphics Editor)

As the Nov. 8 midterm elections approach, it is important that citizens are educated on the many issues and decisions that will shape the future of the United States.

For many, keeping up with government and politics is a daunting task. It is normal to feel overwhelmed when trying to understand political agendas and concerns.

However, The Plainsman is here to help you stay informed and engaged during this season, so you can exercise your right to vote in the midterm elections at the polls with confidence this year. 

The United States has a history of significantly lower voter turnout for midterm elections compared to presidential elections. This is partially due to logistical factors such as registration complications and voter identification laws. However, there is also a large number of Americans who could vote if they wanted to yet choose not to. 

Individuals often underestimate the importance of midterm elections, which not only determine congressional, state and local seats but also serve as a report for the president’s first two years in office. 

This year might prove to disrupt the trend of low voter turnout at midterm elections. There are many issues currently facing the U.S. that appear to be important enough to voters to draw them to the polls. 

According to a 2022 report by the Pew Research Center, “with the overall midterm preferences of registered voters closely divided, nearly identical majorities of voters for candidates in both parties say they are 'extremely' or 'very' motivated to vote in the midterms.”

Regardless of the many reasons why voter turnout at the polls for midterm elections might shift this year, the increase is a good thing. It is crucial that voters push past political fatigue and exercise their right to vote.

With the help of the Plainsman, you too can feel motivated to vote in the upcoming midterm elections. Stay tuned as we provide up-to-date coverage of the midterm elections.


Editorials represent the majority view of The Plainsman's editorial board and do not necessarily represent that of the entire newsroom. 


Editorial Board | Fall 2022

Editorials represent the majority view of The Plainsman's editorial board and do not necessarily represent that of the entire newsroom. 


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