Yesterday the primary elections happened in New York City for local offices. These are the elections that matter the most because they are the ones that affect our local community. Most people vote in Presidential elections hoping that things will change for them, when it’s the State Assembly, State Senate, Judges, and other titles who have the power to affect your everyday. In November, the biggest election takes place for the presidential vote. The first debate will take place on Thursday. The time is now for us all to do our part and to know the powers of many elected officials to protect our futures. Below you will find a brief description of some of the more important ones.
Governor: Approves or vetoes bills passed by the state legislature (state assembly and state senate).
State Senate: Work to enact, amend, or repeal statutes that make up many of the laws previously set. They help in drafting and approving bills for the state.
State Assembly: Helps with negotiating state funding and help with community initiatives. They vote on tax rates. They even vote to uphold or override governor vetoes.
Council (Councilman/Councilwoman): They help negotiate city budgets alongside the mayor of the city. They help monitor city government agencies. They can overturn and enact laws vetoed by the Mayor.
Representatives (Congressman/Congresswoman): Serve the congressional districts of the communities in each state. They introduce bills and serve on committees that focus on various areas such as education or impeachment.
To end, remember knowledge is power. For myself, my ancestors fought for our right to vote, so I will always vote. Sometimes you fail to know the candidates and who to choose. But make sure you go into it knowing the role of each position. When we vote, we are stuck with someone for some time. But let’s work to change this because we must know who we put into office to keep growing our community into the right direction.