Let’s talk politics. With election season fastly approaching we’ve been thrown back into a time of satirical SNL political openers, aggressive bumper stickers and the lovely little screaming matches we call the GOP debates. This election has been made special by a few things this year, those things being the anomaly which is Donald Trump, a *gasps* socialist democrat candidate and (on a smaller scale) the fact that CPHS’ class of 2016 will be eligible to vote. Election season is a scary time, with all the political jargon being thrown around and conflicting opinions it can be hard to understand what’s happening, let alone form your own opinions, so here’s what you need to know.
The primaries will start Tues. Mar 1, also known as Super Tuesday. This will be the start of elections. The primary election will be used to narrow the candidate field; a democratic and a republican candidate will be decided. It’s important because while it doesn’t mean only two people can vote, it will determine a single candidate for the two main parties.

Voting. In order to vote in said elections you have to register. You must register at least 30 days before you can officially vote. For those of us who are still 17, this means that you can register two months before your 18th birthday, and vote after you’ve turned 18.

Do your research. Watch the debates, read the paper, and educate yourself before you go out and vote, not only will this make you seem like a super cool person who knows what they’re saying, but it will also help you make a very serious decision when it comes time to vote. Saying, “anyone but Trump” won’t help you decide who the next leader of our country should be. When it comes down to it, voting is a very serious task and shouldn’t be taken lightly, help yourself and form your own opinion.

Talk to your friends. When trying to decide where you stand, talking or debating with your peers can help you figure out how you feel about a certain candidate. While your peers won’t always be the most trustworthy source, it’s always good to talk things out.

In the end, it’s up to you, not your parents, not your friends. Voting is a big responsibility, and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Educate yourself, talk it out, register and understand the great task that has been placed in your hand.