The 2016 Presidential Election will forever go down in history as many things: intense, unprecedented, controversial, emotionally draining. In the 2018 Midterm Elections, Democrats flipped the House, gaining the majority, and Republicans increased their majority in the Senate, splitting Congress between both houses. Soon we will find ourselves in yet another election period. This time around, voters will have the opportunity to re-elect President Donald J. Trump or elect a new President. But not only that. All 435 seats in the House of Representatives will also be up for grabs, as well as 34 out of the 100 seats in the Senate.

But what does that all mean, and why is it important? Since Congress is split, both parties are looking to gain full control of both houses, which will give either party an increased advantage in pushing their political agenda. However, if Congress continues to be split after the election, then gridlock such as the recent government shutdown would more likely occur, where there may be difficulty in passing laws.

President Trump has confirmed that he will run for reelection. So far, there are seven contenders who have confirmed that they will run (confirmed meaning that they are definite candidates):

• Kamala Harris (D - Senator from California)

• Cory Booker (D - Senator from New Jersey)

• Kirsten Gillibrand (D - Senator from New York)

• Elizabeth Warren (D - Senator from Massachusetts)

• Julian Castro (D - Mayor of San Antonio, TX)

• Tulsi Gabbard (D - Representative from Hawaii)

• John Delaney (D - Former Representative from Maryland)

• Amy Klobuchar (D - Senator from Minnesota)

• Andrew Yang (D - Entrepreneur from New York)

The current field of presidential contenders is the most racially diverse in history. There is currently no other Republican contender besides Trump who has been confirmed to run in the election. With several Democrats looking to take his seat, an approval rating currently at 37%, and disapproval from members of the Republican Party, President Trump is sure to have a run for his money in his campaign for reelection, making this election an interesting one to follow.

The outcome of the 2020 Elections could potentially shape the next decade. As many of us are reaching adulthood, we will find that many laws will affect us more. We will pay taxes. We will need affordable health insurance. In years to come, we may have children of our own, and we would want them to live in a country with a functioning government that meets their needs.

The 2020 Congressional and Presidential Elections will definitely be ones to watch. For those of you who are of legal age to vote… VOTE! No matter your political views or party affiliation, voting is an essential function in our government that allows for our voices to be heard. Staying informed on current events, laws, and elections is important, but taking action matters more. One vote may seem insignificant, but if we were to all think that, then our generation would be more compelled to not vote. Our votes have the potential to make significant change. So go out and vote!