All across the nation, candidates, pundits and politicians are hoping that “voter burn out” does not occur this year. Oftentimes, midterm elections, those held halfway between presidential elections, see a decrease in voter turn out and awareness.

Republicans are hoping to ride the wave of dissatisfaction among many Americans. Meanwhile, Democrats praying that their most ardent base continues to stand firm behind them once more.

This year’s election will be highly contested. All 435(voting) seats in the House of Representatives, 37 of 100 Senate seats, including both of NY’s, and 38 governorships(also including NY), and many state legislatures are up for reelection. Analysts are predicting sweeping Republican gains.

Many of the races are being closely watched at the national level. Here in NY we face an unusual situation.

Both of our US senators are up for reelection. Chuck Schumer and Kristen Gillibrand, both Democrats, are expected to retake their seats. For Gillibrand this will be her first full term as an elected senator, having been selected to fill in for Hillary Clinton, now Secretary of State.

No matter where you live, election time is in the air. It may not be for governor or US senator, but no election is too small to participate in. My very first election was not a presidential one. I believe all I voted for was a City Councilman. But the point is that I voted. And I have never missed an election since.

Voting is a right that every American should take pride in exercising.

So this Monday, November 2nd, make your way to your designated polling place and vote! Remember if you’re not apart of the solution, you are apart of the problem.