We believe we all deserve a world that meets the everyday needs of its people — where quality food, shelter, healthcare, and education are not seen as privileges but understood as fundamental rights. Achieving this requires us to work as a collective. Our power lies in our unity and unwavering commitment to show up for each other and this dream.
Voting is a crucial act in this dream building. It’s more than just choosing candidates or policies; it’s about taking up space and asserting our vision for a fair and just society. We recognize that there isn’t one single path or universal strategy to create a more just world, and voting is a necessary building block in this effort. While we will continue to challenge the status quo in various ways, voting helps protect our ability to pursue the many ways of showing up.
Historically, our right to vote has been fought for and hard-won, and reports of voter suppression efforts still haunt us today. But these efforts to deny us voting power can also work to embolden us. It should remind us of the power that we enact through voting. In this context, voting becomes a radical act of defiance against systems that try to silence our voices and suppress our rights.
On November 5th, we will cast our votes, not just for policies, but for building blocks towards our radical vision — a future that prioritizes our collective needs over the interests of the powerful. The status quo may dismiss our bolder demands as impossible, but when we choose to embrace our power to vote, we become harder to ignore. After the election, we will continue dream building — in our streets, our homes, and every space we occupy.
for November Elections Dates & Deadlines
Register to vote and double check your status at: www.vote.org/am-i-registered-to-vote/
The deadline to register for the November 2024 Election is October 7th at midnight. If you have moved, changed your name, you need to update your voter registration.
Decide how, when, and where you are voting at vote.org
WANT TO VOTE BY MAIL?
Anyone can request an absentee ballot. Absentee voting aka "mail-in voting" and "by-mail voting") is conducted by mail-in ballot before the day of Election Day. All states will mail a ballot to voters if certain conditions are met. The voter may return the ballot in-person or by mail. Some states will let voters apply for an absentee ballot in-person before Election Day and then vote the ballot that same day. Check your states vote-by-mail rules at vote.org/absentee-voting-rules/
WANT TO VOTE EARLY?
Check whether your state has early voting at vote.org/early-voting-calendar/
WANT TO VOTE ON ELECTION DAY?
Polls are open on Tuesday, November 5th, from 7AM until 7PM. Make sure you bring your ID!
KNOW YOUR VOTER ID RULES
Each state sets its own voter ID rules. And most require voters to bring identification to vote in-person. Know the voter ID laws in your state before going to the polls.
Get to know your ballot at vote.org/ballot-information
10 16
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BALLOT
Dream Defenders mobilizes Black and Latinx young adults in Florida to vote and advocate for community issues but does not endorse candidates or parties. This nonpartisan guide is an attempt to offer a concise comparison of candidates to highlight why voting matters. All research compiled here is based on publicly available candidate statements, articles, interviews, voting history, campaign websites, and information found on guides.vote. C ON
FEDERAL OFFICES
President & Vice President
Role: The President is the head of the executive branch and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The Vice President serves as the President of the Senate and succeeds the President if they cannot serve.
Term: 4 years (maximum of 2 terms for the President).
U.S. Senate
Role: Senators represent their state in the U.S. Senate, helping pass laws, ratify treaties, and confirm appointments. There are two Senators per state.
Term: 6 years (one-third of the Senate is up for election every two years).
2024 Election: One-third of the Senate seats will be up for re-election.
U.S. House of Representatives
Role: House members represent districts within their state, passing federal laws and managing government budgets.
Term: 2 years (entire House up for reelection every two years).
These positions and ballot measures will vary based on where you live, but federal and statewide races typically appear on most ballots. Local offices and initiatives provide an opportunity for voters to shape governance at more localized levels.
LOCAL OFFICES
Role: The mayor is the chief executive of a city, overseeing local government, public services, and law enforcement.
Term: Typically 2-4 years, depending on the city.
City Council
Role: Council members represent local districts or the city at large, passing city ordinances, approving budgets, and addressing local concerns.
Term: Varies (often 2-4 years).
City Commissioners/Board of Supervisors
Role: Responsible for overseeing county government, including services like public safety, zoning, and local infrastructure.
Term: Often 4 years.
State Offices
Governor
Role: The governor is the head of the state’s executive branch, overseeing state agencies, signing laws, and managing state budgets.
Term: 4 years (terms and term limits vary by state).
State Legislators
(Senate and House/Assembly)
Role: These lawmakers draft and pass state laws, manage state budgets, and address state-specific issues.
Term: Varies by state (often 2 or 4 years).
Attorney
General
Role: The state's chief legal officer, overseeing legal matters and representing the state in lawsuits.
Term: Typically 4 years.
Secretary
of State
Role: Oversees state elections, voter registration, and other administrative duties.
Term: Usually 4 years.
State Treasurer/Comptroller
Role: Manages the state's finances, investments, and budgets.
Term: Varies by state.
JUDICIAL OFFICES
State Supreme Court Justices
Role: Justices on the highest court in the state interpret state laws and constitutions and hear appeals.
Term: Usually 6-12 years, depending on the state.
Lower Court Judges (e.g., Circuit, District, or County Judges)
Role: Judges preside over civil and criminal cases at the local level.
Term: Varies by state and court type.
Ballot Measures
Referendums/Propositions/Amendments
Role: Voters may be asked to approve or reject new laws, constitutional amendments, tax increases, or other important policies.
Example: Legalization of recreational drugs, changes to tax codes, or reforms to the election process.
Mayor
The President of the United States serves as the head of state and government, responsible for executing federal laws, leading the executive branch, commanding the military, and representing the nation in foreign and domestic matters.
THE ENVIRONMENT
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)
Strengthened. Supports "environmental justice." Prosecuted polluters in CA. Biden administration issued more than 100 environmental regulations.
VOTING
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)
Easier. Pass bills to protect voting rights and make voting and registration easier. Biden administration directed federal agencies to help people register.
Should environmental regulations be strengthened or weakened?
Donald J. Trump (Republican Party)
Weakened. Weakened or ended more than 125 environmental protections including wetlands and wildlife. Will reverse Biden policies.
Claudia De la Cruz (Party for Socialism & Liberation)
Strengthened. "The constant threat of war, deepening inequality, and climate change are the three major crises confronting all of humanity."
Should voting be made harder or easier?
Donald J. Trump (Republican Party)
Harder. Has long supported stronger voter ID requirements. Sued to bar ballot drop boxes. Encouraged Republicans to vote early but said early ballots "get lost" or are "phony."
IMMIGRATION
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)
More.Supports"comprehensive immigration reform" and addresses "border policy."
Should legal paths to citizenship be broadened more or less?
Donald J. Trump (Republican Party)
Less. "Illegal" immigrants are "poisoning the well."
Claudia De la Cruz (Party for Socialism & Liberation)
Easier. "The two-party system is loyal to Wall Street, the corporations and the banks — empowering them and all the billionaires to get richer while the rest of us get poorer. The people have the power to change the power structure and turn it upside down to end the rule of the rich."
Party)
Strengthened. "We all have a human right to a livable planet with a stable climate. healthy food, clean air and water, and living soil. We need a real Green New Deal to transition rapidly from an economic system that is destroying our only home to a sustainable society built around human needs and protectng life on Earth."
Stein (Green Party)
Easier. "Full and meaningful participation in democracy is a human right. We need to revive our democracy with a full spectrum of reforms to empower the people, including real choice on the ballot - because without freedom of choice in elections, there is no democracy."
Claudia De la Cruz (Party for Socialism & Liberation)
More. "Our socialist campaign supports full rights for all immigrants."
Jill Stein (Green Party)
More. "It's time to completely overhaul this broken system to ensure safety for all."
Jill Stein (Green
Jill
Should education about racism and gender identity be censored or allowed?
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)
Allowed. In Florida, "extremists... passed a law, 'Don't Say Gay,' trying to instill fear in outr teachers." Now, "they want to replace history with lies," teaching "that enslaved people benefitted from slavery." Children should be "taught the truth".
Donald J. Trump (Republican Party)
Censored. Certify teachers who "embrace patriotic values." Would "cut federal finding" for any school "pushing critical race theory, gender ideology." Restricted diversity training for federal employees and contractors.
MARIJUANA
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)
Should marijuana be banned or legalized?
Donald J. Trump (Republican Party)
Legalize. "No one should go to jail for smoking weed." "Legalize and regulate." Supports Bidens easing federal prohibition. Sponsored a 2019 bill for the decriminalization of marijuana at the federal level.
Legalize. "As I have previously stated, I believe it is time to end needless arrests and incarcerations of adults for small amounts of marijuana for personal use." Supports state's rights to legalize.
GUN LAWS
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)
Should gun regulations be strengthened or relaxed?
Donald J. Trump (Republican Party)
Strengthen. "President Biden and Vice President Harris call on Congress to pass universal background checks, a national red flag law, an assault weapons ban, and a secure storage law."
Relax. To NRA: "Every single Biden attack on gun owners and mannufacturers will be terminated on my very first week back in office, perhaps my first day."
Claudia De la Cruz (Party for Socialism & Liberation)
Allowed. "We want to stop the white-washing of U.S. History under the guise of bans on "critical race theory"— all young people should understand the horrors of white supremacy and develop an appreciation for why racism must be eradicated from society.
Jill Stein (Green Party)
Allowed. "Let educators and parents decide how best to educate our children."
Claudia De la Cruz (Party for Socialism & Liberation)
Legalize. "Beyond policies, we need to think about uprooting the systems and structures that create conditions for people to become addicted, and also how do we decriminalize and regulate the use of substances in this country?"
Jill Stein (Green Party)
Legalize. Fully legalize cannabis for recreational and medicinal use with similar restrictions to alcohol. "Pardons are essential but insufficient. Legalize it now."
Claudia De la Cruz (Party for Socialism & Liberation)
Mostly Strengthen. "We believe the issue of violence in America should be tackled holistically, and gun control needs to be designed in a way that does not contribute to the further criminalization of oppressed communities. One key step that should immediately be taken is to lift the special immunity from lawsuits that Congress gave to the arms industry in 2005."
Jill Stein (Green Party)
Strengthen. Wants to ban the sale of assault rifles and establish a buyback program; Establish mandatory waiting periods and background checks for firearm purchases; Pass red flag laws for individuals who pose a danger to themselves and others.
HEALTH CARE
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)
Expand. "Health care is a right, not a privilege." Cast a tiebreaking Senate vote to expand the Affordable Care Act and lower Medicare drug prices, including a $35 monthly insulin cost. Would link drug costs to costs that comparable wealthy nations pay.
RIGHTS
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)
Expand. In 2004, officiated some of the nation's first samesex marriages. Helped repeal California's anti-gay marriage initiative. Biden administration protected LGBTQ medical patients from discrimination.
LABOR
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)
Easier. "When unions are strong, America is strong." Walked picket line with UAW workers. Promoting an economy "where everyone, not just the wealthy," can succeed.
SOCIAL SECURITY
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)
No. "We need to expand Social Security and provide our seniors and other beneficiaries of this vital program with greater dignity and peace of mind."
Should health care be expanded or repealed?
Donald J. Trump (Republican Party)
Repeal. "Terminate." "Obamacare is a catastrophe." As President, promised to replace it with "something terrific," but repeal failed in the Senate by one vote. Supported an unsuccessful lawsuit to overturn it.
Should LGBTQ Rights be expanded or limited?
Donald J. Trump (Republican Party)
Limit. Weakened an Obama order protecting LGBTQ federal contractors from discrimination. Banned transgender military service members and ended anti-discrimination protections for transgender patients.
Will it be easier or harder for unions to organize workers?
Donald J. Trump (Republican Party)
Harder. Took actions to limit unions' power, including restricting federal employees' collective bargaining rights. Consistently makes it harder for unions to organize.
Cut Social Security or raise the retirement age to stabilize the program?
Donald J. Trump (Republican Party)
Unclear. "I will never do anything that will jeopardize or hurt Social Security or Medicare." but has proposals that would weaken Social Security's finances.
Claudia De la Cruz (Party for Socialism & Liberation)
Expand. Free quality healthcare. "What we need to do is take the profit motice off healthcare. Healthcare must be guaranteed as a human right and should be free. There is no reason for people to drown in debt with medical bills when there are trillions going to war and the military."
Claudia De la Cruz (Party for Socialism & Liberation)
Expand. Demands full equality for LGBTQ people in all areas of society. Will work to enact national legislation banning discrimination against LGBTQ people in the workplace and in all public and private institutions.
Jill Stein (Green Party)
Expand. "Healthcare is a human right. We need a universal healthcare system that is equitable, comprehensive, free at point of service, and accessible to every single person in the U.S."
Claudia De la Cruz
(Party for Socialism & Liberation)
Easier. Rallied with union workers.
Expand. Will work to guarantee the human rights of the 2SLGBTQIA+
Party)
Easier. Endorsed for a "Green New Deal," which included strengthening unions, raising the minimum wage, and ensuring workplace democracy. Believes unions are a key to achieving economic justice.
Claudia De la Cruz
(Party for Socialism & Liberation)
Unclear.
Party)
No. "Social Security needs to be protected. People have put into Social Security— it is not an entitlement program in that sense. It is not a free lunch, not a government handout— it's a return on what people have put into it. It's critical to elders— their resources are being drained. Debt among elders is skyrocketing— we can hardly afford to trim back Social Security as would happen in a privatized system."
Jill Stein (Green Party)
Jill Stein (Green
Jill Stein (Green
Senators serve as one of two Florida legislators in the U.S. Senate. They make laws, vote on presidential appointments, and approve treaties with other countries.
GUN LAWS
Strengthen or Relax Gun Regulations?
Debbie Murcasel-Powell (Democratic Party)
Strengthen. Lost her father to a shooting, so “made it my life’s work to end” gun violence. Advocated increasing firearms safety. Voted to expand background checks. She led efforts in the House of Representatives to pass new gun control legislation, becoming the vice chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force.
VOTING
Rick Scott (Republican Party)
Mostly Relax. Opposes “every attempt to deny our 2nd Amendment freedoms.” Opposed raising age to own semiautomatic firearms. Supports “red flag” laws. Signed into law a ban on 18-20 year -olds purchasing semiautomatic rifles when serving as the state's governor but has stated he'd oppose a similar bill at the federal level.
Should voting be made harder or easier?
Debbie Murcasel-Powell (Democratic Party)
Easier. Supports the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to increase enforcement of voting rights. Also voted to expand access to voter registration and voting, limit removing voters from the rolls, and require independent,nonpartisanredistricting.
EDUCATION
Rick Scott (Republican Party)
Harder. Supports stricter nationwide requirements for registration, voter ID, and mail-in ballots. Same-day registration "does not allow election officials to verify" voter information's validity and accuracy. As governor, banned campus early-voting sites.
Should education about racism and gender identity be censored or allowed?
Debbie Murcasel-Powell (Democratic Party)
Allowed. Opposes Florida's "Stop WOKE Act" that banned race-based conversations. Opposes limits on teaching about slavery; "we must include all...of our history for our children so they can...build a better future." Supported a national anti-bullying bill.
Rick Scott (Republican Party)
Censored. "It is time for schools to stop pushing these woke ideologies." Supports Florida's restrictions on teaching sexuality and gender identity in schools. Students should not be taught that "some Americans are oppressors and others are oppressed."
IMMIGRATION
Debbie Murcasel-Powell (Democratic Party)
Should legal paths to citizenship for migrant children who grow up in the US be opened otr closed?
Scott (Republican Party)
Open. Wants "major" reforms, starting with "legal pathways." Supported 2024's bipartisan border security bill. Voted for a path to permament residence for DACA.
MARIJUANA
Debbie Murcasel-Powell (Democratic Party)
Legalize. Supports Amendment 3 in Florida, which would legalize adult use of marijuana in Florida.
Closed. Opposes all immigration reform until "our border is secured." Opposed a Biden order aiding undocumented spouses of US citizens. Urged Trump to not end DACA.
Ban or Legalize?
Rick Scott (Republican Party)
Ban. "It messes up your life, and so that's why I've never supported legalization of drugs."
HEALTH CARE
Debbie Murcasel-Powell (Democratic Party)
Repeal or expand the Affordable Care Act (ACA) also known as Obamacare?
Rick Scott (Republican Party)
Expand. Healthcare is "central" to her work, Expand the Affordable Care Act and include a public option. Expand coverage of pre-existing conditions. Cap insulin costs for all Americans. Limit drug price increases. No Floridian should "worry about seeking the care they need."
Mostly Repeal. Wants less government action. Sued to overturn the Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare, then wanted to repeal it. Threatened to sue to avoid penalties for rejecting Medicaid expansion, which he first supported, then opposed.
Rick
LGBTQ+ RIGHTS
Debbie Murcasel-Powell (Democratic Party)
Expand. "I will always fight to protect the LGBTQ+ community." Voted to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Debbie Murcasel-Powell (Democratic Party)
Easier. Voted for policies that protect workers— spoken out against efforts to weaken union power. Believes the role unions play are vital.
Rick Scott (Republican Party)
Limit. Voted against same-sex marriage protection because it didn't protect "religious liberties." Ban transgender women and girls from female sports.
Party)
Harder. Supports policy that makes it easier for workers in unionized workplaces to not pay union dues.
State supreme courts serve as the highest judicial authority within a state, primarily reviewing decisions from lower courts to ensure legal consistency, interpret state laws, and resolve significant legal issues. According to BallotPedia, two of seven justices on the Florida Supreme Court are up for retention election— Renatha Francis and Meredith Sasso. Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed both justices to the supreme court. Newly appointed judges serve for at least one year, after which they appear in a yes-no retention election held during the next general election. If retained, judges serve six-year terms.
How
were they
appointed to the Florida Supreme Court?
Appointed by Governor DeSantis in 2022, after a previous 2020 appointment was invalidated due to constitutional requirements of having at least 10 years as a Florida BAR member.
Appointed by Governor DeSantis in 2023, to replace Justice Ricky Polston.
What unique perspectives do they bring to the court?
Debbie Murcasel-Powell (Democratic Party)
No. "As the primary caretaker for my mother, I know firsthand what a critical lifeline Medicare and Social Security is for our seniors. While Rick Scott wrote the plan to defund Medicare and Social Security, I've worked my entire career to protect seniors' earned benefits. Allowing Rick Scott to gut these bedrock programs and send senior poverty rates skyrocketing is not an option, and if elected, I will keep working to strengthen Social Security and Medicare.
Rick Scott (Republican Party)
Unclear. Drafted a 12-point policy agenda that calls for all federal legislation to sunset unless renewed every five years.
Point six of Scott's proposal now includes exceptions for "Social Security, Medicare, national security, veterans benefits, and other essential services."
First Jamaican-American justice. Brings experience as a former business owner and immigrant. Has experience in family, civil, probate, and criminal law.
Brings experience from her role in the Governor's Office, representing DeSantis in litigation before various courts. Has experience in general liability, auto negligence, and complex commerical claims.
How did they rule on allowing the abortion rights amendment on the ballot?
Both went against the court's winning majority decision, and voted to prevent the abortion rights amendment from appearing on the ballot. This demonstrates their conservative judicial approach, consistent with their appointments by DeSantis. While they form a conservative bloc, the majority of the court still ruled to allow the amendment on the ballot, showing the current limits to their influence.
Rick Scott (Republican
Renatha Francis Meredith Sasso
Renatha Francis
Meredith Sasso
Amendment 1: Partisan School Board Elections
What it does: Proposes making district school board elections partisan, reversing the 1998 constitutional amendment that mandated nonpartisan school board races. Would take effect in 2026.
Type: Legislative ballot measure (state lawmakers voted to place it on the ballot)
Supporters Say:
Increased Transparency: could provide voters with clearer information about candidates' political affiliations and stances, aiding informed decision-making.
Alignmment with Current Trends: Reflects the existing political nature of school board races, as highlighted by recent contentious debates and political endorsements.
Opponents Say:
Erosion of Educational Integrity: Decisions may be influenced more by political affiliation than by the best interests of students and educators.
Partisan Influence on Education: There’s a risk that educational content and policies could be shaped by political ideologies, potentially undermining the quality of education and freedom to learn.
Undermining Nonpartisan Tradition: Reverses the 1998 amendment designed to keep school board elections nonpartisan, which aimed to protect educational governance from political interference.
Closed Primaries: It could lead to closed primaries, excluding independent voters and making the final decision on the general election ballot between a Democrat and a Republican.
More to Consider:
Democrats Oppose: The amendment (HJR31) passed along party lines with Democrats dissenting.
National Norms: Nationally, most school board elections are nonpartisan. Only a handful of states have partisan school board elections or allow party labels.
Vote YES Vote NO
to change school board elections to be partisan to keep school board elections non-partisan
Amendment 2:
What it does: Proposes establishing a state constitutional right to hunt and fish in Florida.
Type: Legislative ballot measure (state lawmakers voted to place it on the ballot)
Supporters Say:
Enshrining hunting and fishing as constitutional rights recognizes their importance in Florida's culture and economy
Supports activities that contribute significantly to the state's ecconomy through tourism and other industries.
Opponents Say:
Will prioritize hunting and fishing over other wildlife management strategies, potentially impacting conservation efforts and jeopardizing the safety of our wildlife, residents, and communities.
Would codify lethal force as the state's primary method for animal control and removal— overriding protections for vulnerable fisheries or wildlife populations.
More to Consider:
Florida statutes already recognize the right to hunt and fish. Current hunting and fishing regulations would still apply. The amendment does not limit Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Authority.
Vote YES Vote NO
to establish a state constitutional right to hunt and fish
to not establish a state constitutional right to hunt and fish
Amendment
3:
Personal Use of Marijuana Legalization Initiative
What it does: Proposes to legalize adult personal use of marijuana in Florida. If passed, individuals aged 21 and older would be allowed to possess up to 3 ounces of marijuana and up to 5 grams of cannabis concentrate.
Type: Citizen-initiated ballot measure (everyday people collected signatures to place it on the ballot)
Current Status: Medical marijuana is already legal in Florida— was approved by voters in 2016. This amendment would expand the legalization to include adult personal use of marijuana.
Supporters Say:
Will generate significant tax revenue and create jobs within the state.
A step towards reducing the burden on the criminal justice system by eliminating penalties for personal use and possession.
A regulated market with ensure safer products for consumers and reduce illegal sales.
Opponents Say:
Worries about the potential public health impact, including increased usage among minors and the posibility of impaired driving incidents.
The amendment is too broadly written and could limit the state's ability to effectively regulare the marijuana industry.
More to Consider:
The campaign has raised most of its money from Trulieve, the state's largest medical marijuana operator. Trulieve is known for trying to establish monopolies on the marijuana industry in other states.
Vote YES Vote NO
to expand the current law to legalize adult personal use of marijuana
to reject legalizing adult personal use of marijuana
Amendment 4:
Limit Government Interference with Abortion
What it does: Proposes limiting government interference with abortion in Florida. If passed, it will nullify the current Florida 6-week abortion ban and go into effect Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
Type: Citizen-initiated ballot measure (everyday people collected signatures to place it on the ballot)
Current Status: Florida currently has a 6-week abortion ban in effect, making it illegal for most people to access an abortion in Florida 6 weeks from the first day of an individual’s last menstrual period, or two weeks after a missed period. It is a third degree felony for doctors to perform an abortion outside of this period, punishable by fines and imprisonment of five years. There are no exceptions for rape, incest or human trafficking after the fifteenth week of pregnancy.
Supporters Say:
Abortion is a personal medical decision that patients and their doctors should have the freedom to make for themselves
The current law bans abortion before many women even realize they are pregnant without any real exceptions for rape, incest, and human trafficking.
The amendment will not change any of Florida's current parental protections or healthcare providers' scope of practice and ethics.
Opponents Say:
The amendment is extreme and misleading
It would allow any health care provider to determine if an abortion is necessary and eliminate parental consent.
Vote YES Vote NO
to stop government interference with abortion and nullify Florida's sixweek abortion ban
to keep Florida's current sixweek abortion ban in effect
Amendment 5:
Annual Inflation Adjustment for Homestead Property Tax Exemption Value
What it does: Proposes adjusting the homestead property tax exemption value annually for inflation. This change would apply to the portion of a home's value that qualifies for the homestead exemption, ensuring that the exemption amount keeps pace with inflation.
Type: Legislative ballot measure (state lawmakers voted to place it on the ballot)
Current Status: Florida homeowners currently benefit from a homestead property tax exemption, which reduces the taxable value of their primary residence. The exemption is set at a fixed amount, which does not account for inflation.
Supporters Say:
Could protect homeowners from the eroding effects of inflation, ensuring that their tax exemptions maintain real value over time.
By adjusting the exemption value annually, homeowners could see more substantial property tax savings, making home ownership more affordable.
Opponents Say:
Adjusting the exemption for inflation will decrease property tax revenue, affecting local government budgets and their ability to fund services such as public safety, education, and infrastructure.
Folks who are not homeowners will likely be the ones made to bear the burden of the tax shift.
A legislative analysis estimates a reducation in non-school local government property taxes by nearly $23 million in the 2025-2026 fiscal year, with losses potentially reaching $112 million within a few years.
Vote YES Vote NO
to adjust the homestead property tax exemption value annually for inflation
to not adjust the homestead property tax exemption value annually for inflation
Amendment 6:
Repeal of Public Financing for Statewide Campaigns
What it does: Proposes to repeal the provision of public financing for candidates running for statewide offices in Florida, including governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, chief financial officer, and commissioner of agriculture.
Type: Legislative ballot measure (state lawmakers voted to place it on the ballot)
Current Status: Florida’s public campaign financing system, enacted in 1986 and enshrined in the state constitution following a 1998 amendment, provides matching funds to eligible candidates for these offices. Candidates must meet specific fundraising thresholds and agree to spending limits to qualify for public funds
Supporters Say:
Could save taxpayers money, which could be redirected to other essential government services.
Opponents Say:
Public financing helps create a level playing field for candidates who may not have access to large private donations, ensuring that elections are fair and competitive.
Public funding is seen as a way to reduce the influence of wealthy donors and special interests in politics, promoting a more democratic electoral process.
A similar repeal effort in 2010 failed to pass, indicating significant voter support for maintaining public campaign financing.
Vote YES Vote NO
to repeal the provision of public financing for candidates running for statewide offices to reject the provision of public financing for candidates running for statewide office.
The November 2024 ballot in the U.S. will feature elections for various federal, state, and local positions, as well as possible ballot initiatives or referendums. Here's a general overview of the positions voters might encounter on their ballots.
PRESIDENT & VICE PRESIDENT
Roles and Responsibilities: The President of the United States serves as both the head of state and head of government, which means they represent the U.S. globally and are the top executive authority over domestic policies. The President signs bills into law, issues executive orders, vetoes legislation, negotiates treaties, appoints federal judges (including Supreme Court Justices), and manages national defense as Commander-in-Chief. The role also includes managing federal agencies and departments, which collectively implement the laws passed by Congress.
The Vice President’s primary responsibility is to assume the presidency in case of the President’s death, resignation, or incapacitation. They also serve as the President of the Senate, casting tie-breaking votes in Senate decisions.
Impact: The President and Vice President set the national agenda on key issues like the economy, healthcare, education, climate change, foreign policy, and defense. Their policies directly affect U.S. laws and international relations.
Examples of Power: Declaring national emergencies, guiding foreign relations, appointing Supreme Court justices, and leading the response to crises like pandemics or natural disasters.
Roles and Responsibilities: Senators represent their entire state (each state has two Senators) and participate in crafting national laws. The Senate has the unique responsibility of approving treaties, confirming federal appointments (e.g., judges, Cabinet members, ambassadors), and conducting impeachment trials. Senators also review and vote on legislation proposed by the House of Representatives.
Impact: The Senate’s decisions influence every aspect of national lawmaking, from passing budgets to regulating immigration. It acts as a check on the executive branch and the judiciary by confirming or rejecting appointments.
Examples of Power: Voting on whether to approve a Supreme Court nominee, ratifying international treaties, and deciding whether to remove a President after impeachment.
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Roles and Responsibilities: House members represent specific districts within a state, with the number of Representatives based on a state’s population. The House initiates revenue-related bills (taxes and spending), drafts laws, and can impeach federal officials (which leads to a trial in the Senate).
Impact: The House has significant influence over federal budget allocations, taxation policies, and laws impacting everyday Americans (e.g., health care, education, infrastructure). The makeup of the House can determine which party controls the legislative agenda.
Examples of Power: Proposing federal budgets, initiating investigations into government misconduct, and drafting laws that impact industries like healthcare and technology.
U.S. SENATE
GOVERNOR
Roles and Responsibilities: The governor is the top executive official in the state, similar to the President’s role at the federal level. Governors sign bills into state law, oversee state agencies, and manage crises such as natural disasters. They are also in charge of the state's National Guard and have the power to pardon or commute sentences for state crimes.
Impact: Governors significantly influence state policies on issues like education, transportation, healthcare, and law enforcement. They also play a role in implementing federal laws within the state and can push back against federal initiatives that they oppose.
Examples of Power: Vetoing state legislation, negotiating state budgets, issuing executive orders related to state emergencies, and guiding public health responses.
STATE LEGISLATORS (Senate & House/ Assembly)
Roles and Responsibilities: State legislatures, composed of a State Senate and a House of Representatives/Assembly, pass laws specific to the state. These laws can cover a wide range of issues, including education, healthcare, criminal justice, labor rights, and environmental protection.
Impact: State lawmakers have a direct impact on daily life, from setting tax rates and minimum wage levels to determining funding for schools and infrastructure projects. They also influence how federal policies are implemented at the state level.
Examples of Power: Drafting state laws, passing state budgets, and overseeing the state’s response to issues like public safety and climate change.
STATE TREASURER/ COMPTROLLER
Roles and Responsibilities: This official manages the state’s finances, investments, and revenue collections. They oversee pension funds, manage state debt, and ensure fiscal responsibility in the state’s budgeting process.
Impact: The Treasurer/Comptroller influences the financial health of the state, guiding how tax revenues are spent and ensuring that the state remains fiscally solvent.
Examples of Power: Managing state retirement funds, ensuring responsible spending, and overseeing state bonds or investments.
ATTORNEY GENERAL
Roles and Responsibilities: The Attorney General is the state’s chief legal officer, responsible for enforcing state laws, defending the state in court, and bringing legal actions on behalf of the state. They may also issue legal opinions that help guide the interpretation of state laws.
Impact: The Attorney General can shape how aggressively the state pursues legal actions on issues like consumer protection, environmental regulation, and civil rights. They also have influence over how state law enforcement policies are implemented.
Examples of Power: Investigating fraud, prosecuting crimes, suing the federal government (e.g., challenging federal immigration policies), and enforcing state environmental laws.
SECRETARY OF STATE
Roles and Responsibilities: The Secretary of State manages elections, maintains public records, and oversees business filings (e.g., incorporations, licenses). In many states, they are also responsible for handling voter registration and enforcing campaign finance laws.
Impact: The Secretary of State plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of elections, from voter registration to vote counting, and can influence how accessible voting is within the state.
Examples of Power: Certifying election results, overseeing election security, and ensuring transparency in campaign finance.
MAYOR
Roles and Responsibilities: The mayor is the executive leader of a city or town, responsible for implementing city council policies, managing city services (police, fire, public works), and often serving as a public figurehead during crises.
Impact: Mayors have significant control over local policies affecting housing, public transportation, law enforcement, and economic development.
Examples of Power: Setting priorities for local police departments, managing urban development projects, responding to local disasters, and advocating for city funding.
CITY COUNCIL
Roles and Responsibilities: City council members pass local laws (ordinances), approve the city budget, and provide oversight of city departments. They represent specific districts within the city or town and act as a legislative body.
Impact: City councils shape local policy in areas like zoning, public safety, and infrastructure. They influence how cities allocate funds and resources to address issues like homelessness or public transportation.
Examples of Power: Setting Passing local laws on noise ordinances, regulating short-term rentals (like Airbnb), and approving local budgets.
Roles and Responsibilities: These officials govern at the county level, managing local issues like public health services, law enforcement, and land use planning. They also oversee county budgets and services.
Impact: County officials influence regional policy decisions, from transportation infrastructure to local environmental regulations.
Examples of Power: Approving local development projects, managing regional transportation plans, and overseeing public health initiatives.
BALLOT MEASURES
Referendums/Propositions/Amendments:
STATE SUPREME COURT JUSTICES
Roles and Responsibilities: Justices on the state’s highest court hear appeals on significant legal issues, interpret state constitutions, and provide final rulings on state law. They may rule on cases involving everything from election law disputes to constitutional challenges.
Impact: State Supreme Court decisions often set legal precedents that shape future laws and policies. They can also rule on cases that impact civil rights, labor laws, and environmental protections within the state.
Examples of Power: Deciding constitutional cases, ruling on challenges to state laws, and influencing how laws are applied across the state.
LOWER
Roles and Responsibilities: These judges preside over civil and criminal cases, from family law matters to serious criminal trials. They interpret state and local laws and oversee trials, motions, and legal disputes at the local level.
Impact: Lower court judges directly impact individuals' lives by ruling on cases such as divorce, criminal sentences, or contract disputes.
Examples of Power: Sentencing criminal defendants, awarding damages in civil lawsuits, and deciding the outcomes of local disputes.
Role & Responsibilities: The Ballot measures allow voters to directly decide on specific issues, from tax laws to constitutional amendments. These initiatives can be proposed by legislatures or through citizen petitions
Impact: Ballot measures can have long-lasting effects on state laws and policies, often shaping key issues like education funding, healthcare access, and taxation.
Examples of Power: Legalizing recreational marijuana, approving new infrastructure funding, or amending state constitutions to change voting rights or campaign finance rules..
These roles represent various levels of power and responsibility, each contributing to the structure of government and the daily lives of citizens. Every office has its unique sphere of influence, from local governance to national policy-making, shaping the way laws are made, enforced, and interpreted.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS/ BOARD OF SUEPRVISORS
COURT JUDGES (Circuit, District, or County Judges)
