Televisedpresidential debateshave been a fixture in American politics since 1960.
That said, this election season has been anything but ordinary.
(FWIW, the debate commission has decided to automaticallymute candidatesduring their opponents initial responses.
Elesin Aleksandr/Adobe Stock
To help you think through what to do instead, weve asked people about the things they have planned.
Read through presidential election voter guides.
Hereshow Bidens winning would affect your health, for instance, andhow Trumps winning again would do the same.
you’re free to also do a deep dive on each candidates website to read their policy proposals.
Major newspapers (like theNew York TimesandLos Angeles Times)have voter guides to help keep you informed.
It even lets you compare candidates [stances] on issues, she explains.
Research state and local elections too.
Resources likeVote411have local election information, and you could see if your local newspaper has covered the candidates.
Remember that some of these candidates are also elected officials right now, Fey explains.
you’re free to look at their record on the issues that matter to you.
Get credible debate information secondhand.
If watching the last debate was more harmful than not, you dont have to ignore the event entirely.
This can help you digest some of the, uh, more disturbing moments that are likely to occur.
Look into becoming a poll worker.
Donate time or money to the organization of your choice.
In short: No matter who wins in November, there are tough fights ahead.
Or suppose you’re interested in reproductive access specifically.
The key here is to focus on the causes that matter to you and lend your support.
Donate time or money to a political campaign.
If you have a little money to spare, considerdropping some coinson the political campaign of your choice.
This doesnt just apply to elections that directly impact your life.
Call and write your senators.
Refine and recommit to your voting plan.
The voting registration deadline in many states has passed, so hopefully, youve done that already.
That said, there are other considerations.
Sit down on Thursday night, and complete the form (then make a plan to mail it).
Encourage family and friends to think through their voting plan.
If concerns like transportation orchild carearise, you’re free to brainstorm solutions together.
Take care of yourself (but commit to voting).
I already know who Im voting for, Sabrina B., 36, tells SELF.
So Im going to do, literally,anythingelse.
