Are You Eligible to Vote? Here’s the Information You Need

Are you turning 18 soon? If yes, then you better get excited for the 2022 Midterm elections! You can register to vote in person or online before October 29th.

Start counting down the days until November 8th, when Massachusetts will choose a new Governor, elect multiple state reps and senators, as well as vote on multiple referendum questions.

Starting with the gubernatorial race, the candidates are Republican Geoff Diehl and Democrat Maura Healey. Late last year, Republican Governor Charlie Baker announced he would not be seeking reelection, opening up the race to Attorney General Healey and former Representative Diehl. With huge issues in the state such as the MBTA, rising energy costs, and inflating home prices across the Commonwealth, the new Governor will have a full plate. Simply put, this race will come down to Diehl’s top campaign supporter and Healey’s biggest enemy: Donald Trump.

Next up is Senator in General Court in the First Plymouth and Norfolk District, with incumbent Republican Patrick O’Connor and Democrat Robert Stephens. Representing Duxbury, Hingham, Hull, Marshfield, Norwell Scituate, Cohasset and Weymouth, the State Senator must work with issues such as opioid addiction, seawall restoration, and economic reform.

In the State Representative election, Patrick Kearney is running unopposed in the 4th Plymouth District.

Question 1 is regarding the increased taxation on income of over $1 million. A Yes vote will impose an additional 4% increase, with the increased tax revenue being used for education and transportation. A No vote will make no change to taxation.

Question 2 regards the regulation of dental insurance. A Yes vote will decide that dental insurance companies must spend 83% of premiums on patient care instead of admin expenses. A No vote will maintain the current policy, where there is no minimum.

Question 3 involves the amount of liquor licenses available. A Yes vote will allow more liquor licenses in the state, leading to more stores and restaurants offering alcohol. A No vote will keep the amount of licenses available.

Question 4 revolves around the eligibility for driver’s licenses. A Yes vote will keep a law that allows illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. A No vote will repeal the law, allowing only documented citizens to drive legally on Massachusetts roads.

Elections matter, and for some of you, this will be the first election you can ever vote in. Take the 10 minutes to go head to the SHS gym on Tuesday, November 8th, and cast your ballot.