(Atlantic) With Election Day approaching on Tuesday, November 3, Iowans have the opportunity to cast their ballots in federal, state and local elections, as well as a proposed constitutional amendment.
Although the presidency is not on the ballot, voters will elect officials responsible for decisions that directly affect their communities.
Becca Eastwood, Deputy Policy Director for the American Civil Liberties Union of Iowa, has worked with the organization for four years. Her work includes educating Iowans about their civil rights and civil liberties, as well as advocating for those protections with state legislators.
“I think some of the elections that have a huge and outsize impact on people’s everyday lives are actually the elections that are often least participated in,” Eastwood said.
In southwestern Iowa, voters will have the opportunity to elect county officials, including supervisors, treasurers, recorders and attorneys, depending on their county. Ballots may also include soil and water conservation district commissioners, agricultural extension council members and public hospital trustees.
“Participating in the elections that inform the outcomes or the shape of those government bodies is absolutely critical because there are so many decisions that are made at the state and local level that directly impact Iowans’ lives,” Eastwood said.
Beyond choosing candidates, Iowa voters will also decide on a proposed constitutional amendment that would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the Iowa Legislature to approve certain income tax increases.
Eastwood said understanding the responsibilities of elected officials can encourage greater participation in elections, and encouraged Iowans to research candidates and pay attention to every race listed on their ballots.
“There are two sides to your ballot. Make sure you turn it over,” Eastwood said.
Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3. Voters can find their assigned polling locations and additional election information through the Iowa Secretary of State’s website.
