November 8th is right around the corner, and here’s what you need to know before you cast your vote. This election is an important one for Pennsylvania, with the race for governor and an open seat in the Senate. These are crucial positions in influencing our daily lives and the opponents have sparked much attention across the state.
Lt. Gov. John Fetterman faces Dr. Mehmet Oz in the battle for the Senate. Fetterman is the Democratic candidate, running on a platform of cutting the working class’ taxes and going after large corporations. Oz primarily focuses on his background as a doctor, and how he wants to restore balance to Pennsylvania. Former Attorney General Josh Shapiro is the Democratic candidate for governor, and he faces Republican Doug Mastriano, a current member of the Pennsylvania Senate.
The recent overturning of Roe v. Wade sparked a mass divide in politics and remains a big topic on this year’s ballot. The Supreme Court’s decision leaves the legality of abortion to the discretion of the states. In 13 states, most abortions have been banned, with more possibly to come. This leaves voters with a big decision to make. Fetterman is for women’s reproductive rights and Oz supports the banning of all abortions. The appointment of one of these men for senator can have a national impact on not only abortion rights but other Supreme Court rulings that were protected by Roe v. Wade.
Pennsylvania has been famous for its reputation as a swing state, leaving the elections with a very uncertain outcome. In the 2016 presidential election, the state went red and voted for Trump, while in 2020, Pennsylvania turned blue by a narrow margin for Biden. It’s anyone’s game for the senate seat and governor, and it’s up to the people to decide.
Reading all the information I found on the midterm election makes me hope that anyone who is eligible is registering and going out to vote. The candidates seen every day now in ads on TV could be the future of our state. Their decisions will directly affect you, and you could and should have a say in it.