The election of 2016 has become one of the most intriguing and unique elections in modern history. The entire world is watching to see the result of this kind of election that has never happened before. The one of a kind candidates and the issues that have come up in the election have only increased the necessity to vote and influence America's future.
1. The issues covered in this election are extremely important.
Voting for a certain candidate determines the law on important issues such as terrorism, illegal immigration, the bathroom laws and more. Key issues that have come up include the direction of the economy, the lowering or raising of taxes, and America is at a critical juncture where voting will define its policy and leave a long-lasting mark on the world.
2. Third parties are becoming more prevalent.
Third parties like Gary Johnson's Libertarian Party or Jill Stein's Green Party have been gaining momentum. What some people perceive as the lack of good choices from the democratic or republican parties has lead them to choose third party candidates. Right now, Gary Johnson is polling at more than 5 percent, which is much more than what third parties would poll in a typical election.
3. BLM and the emphasis on the African American community has increased.
The recent controversies surrounding African American shootings have only increased. The tension between young African-Americans and the police hasn't been this high since the 1960's. The shootings have garnered national media attention and both major party candidates have different ways to resolve the problems. Donald Trump supports strengthening the police and healing bonds between communities while Hillary Clinton calls for criminal justice reform.
4. Both major party candidates will mark new milestones.
Hillary Clinton, if elected, will become the first woman president in America's history. This is a significant advancement for women, as they have suffered for much of America's history. Before 1926 women weren't allowed to vote, even after societal constraints kept women from doing things other than household chores. Donald Trump, on the other hand, will become the first person to never have held a political or military office before becoming president if elected. Trump claimed that spending time at a prep school was equivalent to military training, but he never actually joined the military.
5. Both major party candidates have large disapproval ratings.
Hillary Clinton has her email scandal and the Benghazi incident while Trump has his tape leak as well as dozens of other controversies that have amassed throughout this election season. Since both candidates have such large flaws, this highlights a decline in both major parties. More unrest is happening, and third parties are trying to take away voters from the major parties. Voting can determine which parties will become victorious not just in the election but also in the long run.
