Every four years, U.S. citizens vote for the country¡¯s next president and vice president during the general election. Major political parties nominate presidential and vice-presidential candidates at their party¡¯s national convention. The candidates¡¯ names are listed on the general election ballot.
Candidates from smaller political parties and independent candidates might not have a national convention, but they may be on the ballot if they meet eligibility requirements, which vary by state. This usually includes collecting a certain number of signatures on a petition for that state. In Florida, an independent candidate for president must petition for access to the general election ballot and submit signatures equaling at least one percent of the total registered voters in the state. A write-in candidate must submit an oath to have their votes tallied.
Additionally, all 435 seats in the United States House of Representatives will be voted on in 2024. The United States Senate has 34 of its 100 seats up for election, including that of Republican Senator Rick Scott. A special election will be held on November 5 for the last two years of Republican Senator Ben Sasse¡¯s open seat.
There are also a variety of state and local races, as well as ballot measures on the general election ballot. Ballot measures are a way for voters to directly decide issues. They are proposed laws that require voter approval to pass. Florida¡¯s ballots will include measures addressing school board elections, hunting and fishing, marijuana, abortion, property taxes and campaign finance. You can preview your specific ballot at turbovote.org
