The 2020 Presidential election and the big events leading up to it are fast approaching. It is once again time for Americans to catch up on political issues so we can effectively engage in the voting process. If you’re unaware of the upcoming events that will kick start the election season, here are a few dates you can look out for.
2019 Events
Because of the unusually large candidate pool for the Democratic party, there have been quite a few debates that have occurred and a few that still need to happen. Before the year 2019 comes to an end, there will be two additional debates. The fifth democratic debate will be held on November 20th in Atlanta, Georgia and the final debate will be held on December 19th at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California.
2020 Events
January through April of 2020 will be host to six additional Democratic presidential debates. However, the Iowa caucus, held on February 3rd, is what really gets campaign season started. It’s the first of many events held in the beginning of any election year. In fact, they generally take up the entire first half of the year. Various other caucuses, primaries and conventions will continue to happen until June of 2020. An article written by Joe Perticone for businessinsider.com explains the differences between caucuses and primaries. He states, “Primary elections are quite simple. Voters show up to their polling place, whether it is a school, library, or elsewhere, and check the box for the candidate of their choice.” Caucuses are a completely different event and are described in the article by saying, “When voters arrive at the venue, which can be anywhere from a high school gymnasium to a restaurant, supporters of certain candidates will break off into groups, including groups for undecided voters. Then voters, who are typically activists and very politically engaged, will plead their case to everyone about why their preferred candidate is the best choice.”
The second half of the year is where the focus starts to narrow. The Democratic National Convention will be held July 13th- 16th and the Republican National Convention will take place August 24-27th. Shortly after, the official presidential debates will ensue. September 29th, will host the first presidential debate with the first and only vice presidential debate happening October 7th. The second presidential debate will take place on October 15th while the third and final presidential debate will take place on October 22nd. If you have the opportunity, tune in to these debates. They will help you learn more about each candidate and where they stand on important policies.
Voting will take place on November 3rd, 2020. It’s incredibly important to participate in politics on a local and national scale. Former President Thomas Jefferson stated, “We do not have government by the majority. We have government by the majority who participate.” Voting is a right many people take for granted. Make your voice heard by doing your civic duty.