Elections 101: Everything You Need To Know Before You Vote

Elections 101: Everything You Need To Know Before You Vote

Let's Get Political

Let’s face it. Not a lot of people vote in July primary runoff elections. And it’s understandable why. Keeping track of so many different races and understanding what a runoff election even is can be  extremely overwhelming. 

 

But it doesn’t mean that these elections aren’t important. Primary runoff elections ultimately decide which candidates are going to be on the ballot in November. And in places like Travis County, that are dominated by one political party, the winner of the primary runoff is fairly certain to win in the general election as well.

 

At a time when our country is grappling with so many different crises all at once, voting in this July election is one very tangible way to make a difference and have an impact on the issues that matter to you – police accountability, criminal justice, health care. 

 

That’s why we’ve been hard at work over the past several weeks, publishing a series of election guides, all of which you can check out below. For even more election info, you can also follow us on Instagram at @the_austin_common

Everything you need to know about vote-by-mail, early voting, and safety precautions at the polling booth. 

An annotated version of the Travis County Democratic primary runoff ballot, with info on all the candidates running and descriptions of the positions they’re running for. 

An annotated version of the Travis County Republican primary runoff ballot, with info on all the candidates running and descriptions of the positions they’re running for. 

A closer look at the Democratic primary runoff race for County Attorney, including info on the candidates’ backgrounds, platforms, and supporters. 

A closer look at the Democratic primary runoff race for District Attorney, including info on the candidates’ backgrounds, platforms, and supporters. 

A closer look at the special election for State Senate District 14, including info on the candidates’ backgrounds, platforms, and supporters. 

Shades of Green Podcast

Austin Common Editor-In-Chief Amy Stansbury made a guest appearance on an episode of Shades of Green (a local environmental talk radio show) to talk all about the July 14th election. Give it a listen for a roundup of everything you need to know!

After you've voted...

After you’re done voting, continue your commitment to making a difference in your community by ordering yourself a copy of “A Beginner’s Guide To Local Government: Austin Edition.” We’ve partnered with the team at A Functional Democracy (a nonpartisan, arts-based civic education organization) to distribute copies of this amazing book, which goes over the basics of how Austin’s government system works and how to get involved. 

 

On Election Day (July 14th), use the code IVOTED at checkout for 15% off a copy of “A Beginner’s Guide To Local Government.” It’s the perfect Election Day  gift for yourself or a friend! 

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