2020 will bring more than just a summer Olympics in Tokyo and Brexit; the U.S. presidential election is right around the corner. Seven Democratic debates have already aired, and there will be at least five more this spring. As Democrats weigh their options, President Trump continues to fundraise and host rallies for his re-election campaign. Regardless of who you vote for, it’s important that you make your voice heard by filling out a ballot. But, if you’re a first-time voter, the whole election process can definitely seem intimidating. To help you out, here’s an overview of the 2020 presidential election and the dates you should mark on your calendar. 

February 3: Both Republicans and Democrats host primaries and caucuses in all 50 states to pick their presidential nominee. The first of these occurs in early February, when Iowan voters will gather in homes, churches, and community centers for the Iowa Caucuses. Rather than private ballots, participants cast their votes publicly- you can learn more about the admittingly-chaotic process here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=yoQ0Be9AZ_8

March 3: This is the date of the Texas primaries. Texas has open primaries; you don’t need to register with a party to vote in their primaries, but you can’t vote in both. You’ll choose which party’s ballot to fill out at the polling location.

October 5: This is the voter registration deadline for those hoping to vote in the 2020 presidential election. But why wait? You can register to vote as soon as you’re 17 and 10 months, though you have to be 18 to cast a ballot. Find more information on how to register to vote here: https://www.votetexas.gov/register-to-vote/

October 19: Early voting begins 15 days before election day. If you’re hoping to beat the crowds or won’t be able to vote on November 3, this is a great option! Find your early voting locations or check your voter registration status here: https://teamrv-mvp.sos.texas.gov/MVP/mvp.do

October 23: This is the last day to apply for a ballot by mail, which you’ll need if you’re attending college and won’t be home for the election. Find more information here:https://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter/reqabbm.shtml

November 3, 2020: Election Day! Be sure to bring an acceptable form of ID (student IDs do not qualify!) and prior knowledge of what’s on the ballot, from the presidential candidates to the variety of local issues you’ll be voting on. Happy voting!