Now that brat summer is coming to an end, we are approaching the 2024 elections and it’s crucial for voters—especially families, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals—to understand the key issues at stake. This will be a life changing election for many of us…for better or for worse. This post, the first in our series on candidates and issues in the national elections and swing states, will outline some of the most pressing matters on the ballot and their potential impact on our communities.

National Issues

1. Healthcare

• Affordable Care Act (ACA): Potential expansions or rollbacks could affect access to family planning services and LGBTQ+-inclusive healthcare.
• Reproductive Rights: Ongoing debates about abortion access and contraception coverage.
• Trans Healthcare: Policies regarding gender-affirming care for both adults and minors.

2. Education

• LGBTQ+ Inclusive Curricula: Debates over inclusion of LGBTQ+ history and comprehensive sex education.
• School Choice: Potential impacts on public school funding and LGBTQ+-affirming education environments.
• Student Loan Debt: Policies affecting college affordability for families.

3. Family Policies

• Paid Family Leave: Proposals for national paid leave policies.
• Childcare: Plans to address the rising costs of childcare.
• Marriage Equality: Potential legislation to codify same-sex marriage rights at the federal level.

4. Workplace Equality

• Equal Pay: Measures to address the gender pay gap.
• LGBTQ+ Employment Protections: Efforts to strengthen or weaken non-discrimination policies.

5. Immigration

• DACA and Mixed-Status Families: Policies affecting immigrant families and LGBTQ+ asylum seekers.

State-Level Issues

While specific ballot measures vary by state, here are some common themes to watch:

1. Voting Rights: Measures that could affect access to voting, particularly for marginalized communities.
2. Minimum Wage: Proposals to increase state minimum wages, which disproportionately affect women and families.
3. Anti-Discrimination Laws: State-level protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in areas like housing and public accommodations.
4. Reproductive Rights: State constitutional amendments or laws regarding abortion access.
5. Marijuana Legalization: Potential impacts on criminal justice reform and family dynamics.

How to Stay Informed

1. Check Your Registration: Ensure you’re registered to vote at Vote.gov.
2. Research Candidates: Use non-partisan resources like Ballotpedia or Vote Smart to learn about candidates’ positions.
3. Understand Your Ballot: Many states provide sample ballots ahead of the election. Check your local election office’s website.
4. Follow Reputable News Sources: Stay updated on election news from various credible outlets.
5. Engage Locally: Attend town halls or community meetings to learn about local issues and candidates.

Conclusion

The 2024 election will have significant implications for families, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals. By staying informed and engaged, we can ensure our voices are heard at the ballot box. Stay tuned for our upcoming posts, where we’ll explore the specific issues facing our community in key swing states. In the meantime, show your support for our candidates with some political must-haves like the ICONIC Harris Walz Camo hat). Remember, your vote matters. Let’s make it count! 🏳️‍🌈

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