In the United States, democracy relies on voting to create a just system that gives the people power to elect government officials. 

Elections take place every two years, where citizens of each state can collectively vote on local issues and politicians that represent their views in office. Election Day is a time for American citizens, age 18 and above, to cast their ballots and use their voices to fight for their beliefs.

Tuesday, Nov. 8 marked this year’s election day in the United States. These midterm elections allowed citizens to vote on government positions from state governor to local city council members as well as propositions. 

Every election cycle, many politicians, influencers and organizations urge Americans to express their political opinions and vote. Just as the founding fathers counted on informed citizens to vote, those who have faith in the democratic process hope that people today will educate and express themselves too. 

In Carlsbad, locals can find polling centers mainly in schools, libraries and community centers. It may be daunting to see the long line of people, quiet as they hand in their votes, but the lines move quickly. There are volunteers to answer questions and assist with any issues you may have, and the process is fairly simple.

For the most part, the polling process is a secure and efficient system that allows voters to drop off or send in their ballots privately. This allows voters to be confident that their votes will count towards whomever or whatever they intend. As a poll volunteer, Patricia “Pat” Devine has helped facilitate this private process. 

“We have a system and everything is in the system so it’s fool-proof,” Devine said. “We have an electronic voting device and it automatically records everything.”

Devine, a volunteer at the Calaveras Hills community center polling site, elaborates on the importance of this civic duty. 

“People need to vote because it’s a freedom we have in our country,” Devine said. “It’s a privilege, and it’s our responsibility.”

Devine describes her stance on bringing more people to vote.

“I think by having more polling places open, and I think people should spread the word,” Devine affirms.

AP Government student Ayden McDaniel has been closely following this year’s unique midterm race.

“This midterm is going to bring about one of the closest and evenly split forms of congress and Federal government not seen in decades,” McDaniel said.

He believes that participating in these elections is the best way to advocate for whatever opinions or views one might hold. 

“The House more than the Senate shows how powerful an individual vote can be because seat toss-ups have gone rampant with Democratic districts turning red,”’ McDaniel added. “Democrats are fighting back against the onslaught of their Republican counterparts.” 

In California District 49, the democratic incumbent Rep. Mike Levin beat Brian Maryott with 52 percent of votes. Mike Levin will serve his third consecutive term for two years.

In local elections, Carlsbad residents elected a new mayor, city council treasurer, two council members and a city clerk. Measure J allowed local residents to vote for or against renovations to the Monroe Street pool; votes in favor are ahead by 1.11%. All election results can be found on the San Diego County Registrar of Voters.

The mayor-elect is Keith Blackburn, who will serve a four-year term. The two elected council members are Peter Norby for District One and Priya Bhat-Patel for District Three. The City Clerk seat is currently vacant, while the City Treasurer is now Craig Lindholm.

Democrats have won control over the Senate with one seat flipped in Pennsylvania by Democrat John Fetterman. Republicans are only one seat away from declaring control over the House. 

More results, such as for state elections, will be released on Dec. 16.