Election Day lasts just one day — a 24-hour culmination of the seemingly never-ending campaign season.
But we’ll spend the next two, four, six years living with the choices we make as a country this November 8. And the decisions made during that time by the people we elect to the White House, Congress, and state and local offices will impact all of our lives for decades to come.
We're talking everything from student-loan rates to tampon taxes to our safety as a nation.
All the more reason to prep like you haven’t done since your last set of finals.
At Refinery29, our party is women. We want to see you claim your own power in the political system — no matter if you identify as Democrat, Republican, Green, Libertarian, or none of the above.
That’s why for the 100 days leading up to November 8, we’ll be throwing up a new challenge each day to help you get informed, involved, and excited to take action on the issues that are most important to you, personally. Hopefully, you'll even have some fun while you're at it.
Democracy isn’t something that just happens — it’s something that we do. And it gives us all the power to shape our collective future. As President John F. Kennedy so perfectly put it, "One person can make a difference, but everyone should try."
So, check back each day to find out a new, easy way to be involved in the first election of the rest of your life. We know you're busy, so we promise these won't be huge time-sucks. In fact, most of the challenges will take you just a few minutes to complete.
And use the hashtag #VYV100 to share your progress and your own ideas along the way. After all, a party — political or otherwise — is no fun if it’s only you.
Day 47
As we get closer to Election Day, social media is filling up with politically themed posts. But not all memes are created equal. Give that meme you keep seeing in your Facebook feed a quick Google search, and check out what the truth is behind the tagline.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 46
There are many issues that drive us to the polls. For these moms, the No. 1 priority in this election is personal. Read their moving story here.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 45
While we love a good Twitter debate or Facebook comment feud as much as the next social media-dependent millennial, nothing beats talking things out IRL.
Take a minute to ask a friend about politics and see where the conversation goes.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 44
…this amazing political swag.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 43
You don't have to be in the United States to be an American — and an expat vote counts just as much as one from within the border.
Find out why one American living abroad thinks it's so important to make the effort to vote. And if you plan on being overseas on November 8, learn what you can do to make your vote count.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 42
As invested as we all are in the election cycle, some things are beyond politics.
On the 15th anniversary of 9/11, think about the human lives behind big moments. Read about how a survivor, a first responder, and grieving families remember that day.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 41
Every vote counts, but in places where the race is tight, some votes can really count.
Check in on whether your state, county, or district is a close race, and find out what you can do to tip the balance.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 40
A lot of us tend to have friends who we agree with on the important things — that's why they're friends, right?
But no matter how sure you are of your stances, there are two sides to everything. Strike up a conversation with someone who disagrees with you on an important issue to find out why they feel the way they do.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 39
The big questions don't have to knock you off balance.
Libertarian presidential candidate Gary Johnson was caught off guard on Thursday when he couldn’t identify Aleppo as the city at the center of the Syrian refugee crisis. While you might not be preparing a foreign policy plan, it’s still a good idea to know what’s going on. Brush up on what’s going on in Syria here.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 38
Whether you support a candidate or a cause, a couple of bucks can go a long way.
A donation of a few dollars can help keep a campaign or advocacy organization afloat. Look up groups working for a cause you believe in, and consider contributing a small amount while brewing your own beans for a day or two, instead.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 37
Wondering what Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump want to do about your student loans? These explainers break it down:
What Does Donald Trump Say About Student Debt?
Where Does Hillary Clinton Stand On Student Debt? Here's What To Know
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 36
It's Labor Day here in the United States.
The late summer day off is about much more than barbecues and beach trips. Brush up on the history behind the observance — and how the labor movement impacted all of our lives — here.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 35
One of the biggest ways you can make a difference is by volunteering
for a campaign or cause that matters to you.
If you want to use your time to advance your party of choice's political agenda, you could start with candidates running for state office or your local party organization (for the latter, try googling something like "Los Angeles County GOP" or "Omaha Democrats").
Can't find a political party or candidate you love? Pick a specific issue — the environment, gun regulation, reproductive rights, paid family leave — and get involved that way.
There are plenty of nonpartisan options, too.
You could help register people to vote (Rock The Vote has a sign up here). She Should Run, which we've mentioned before, recruits volunteers to help get more women of all political leanings to run for office.
Take five to scroll through the options and find an issue or cause you can commit to helping this election cycle.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 34
There's no shortage of problems that need solving in the country today. Pick your top issue and send a tweet, snap, or digital missive of your choosing highlighting the work to be done on this important topic.
Bonus points if you spark a convo on the issue IRL!
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 33
The first debate is just a few weeks away — on Monday, September 26.
Set a Google Cal reminder — and maybe send your squad a save-the-date for a debate-watch party — so you don't miss this must-see TV.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 32
Can you send a message about the election — or an issue important to you — using ONLY emoji? Give it a try and share your best line using the hashtag #VYV100!
P.S. Check out Refinery29's new #AltMoji keyboard for more badass options to help illustrate your point.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 31
You're probably familiar with Notorious RBG, but can you name the other seven justices currently serving on the U.S. Supreme Court?
The roster for the bench is a big deal in this election. That's because there's a vacancy that's probably going to be filled by the next president. And with a closely divided court, the beliefs and leanings of the new justice could have a major impact on issues that affect our everyday lives.
Even if President Obama's current SCOTUS nominee does somehow make it through the Senate, it's likely that one or more spots will open up under the watch of the next commander in chief.
Want to know more about how to land a lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court? We break down the process in this handy explainer.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 30
Voting isn't the only way to voice your opinion on an issue that matters to you.
Advocates are using online petitions to push for change on issues ranging from sexist billboards to paid family leave.
Check out Change.org to see if there's a cause you want to champion with the stroke of a digital pen.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 29
This campaign has been so long — and at times, so crazy — that it's easy to forget some of the most jaw-dropping moments, outrageous claims, and serious gaffes.
Take a (virtual) stroll through memory lane with this collection of all the things the candidates have actually said this cycle.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 28
We all like spending time with our friends — why not use the time for good?
Every vote counts, and even if you're already registered to vote, you can pay it forward by encouraging and helping your friends to get involved, too. Print out a whole bunch of voter registration forms and take them to brunch. Your friends can fill out the forms while you all wait for coffee and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment on a lazy Sunday.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 27
Politicians may sometimes seem like a bunch of talking heads, but don't forget that when they're done with their stump speeches, they have lives behind the scenes, too.
At this point in the election, we may know plenty about the Democratic and Republican nominees, but the third-party candidates are pretty fascinating, as well. Check out what there is to know about the Green Party's Jill Stein and Libertarian candidate Gary Johnson.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 26
On Women's Equality Day, it's important to remember that our rights aren't necessarily guaranteed.
For the 96th anniversary of women winning the right to vote, talk to the women in your life about what being politically involved means to them, and how its meaning has changed over the years.
You might get some fascinating stories.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 25
Need to show off your enthusiasm for a campaign?
Whether your allegiance is to a political party or just a very meta scrunchie, there is just so much swag associated with the modern political election.
From Donald Trump action figures to Bernie Sanders onesies, there's a little something for everyone. And if you're sick of the whole damn thing and you're already planning your move to Canada? Well, there's something for you, too.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 24
Gone are the days when candidates communicated to voters through TV screens and campaign mail only.
Given that it's 2016, White House hopefuls are making social media an ever-growing part of their strategies. Check out these accounts for presidential hopefuls on Twitter to keep up with the candidates and see the messages the campaigns are trying to send to legions of followers online:
Republican @RealDonaldTrump
Democrat @HillaryClinton
Libertarian @GovGaryJohnson
Green Party @DrJillStein
Independent @Evan_McMullin
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 23
We want to make sure you head to the polls with all the information you need to vote for a candidate who represents your values and views. So, between now and November 8, we'll be bringing you easy-to-read explainers that break down where the White House hopefuls stand on key issues. Today, let's take a look at one of the most polarizing political issues today: gun rights.
Find out where Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump stand on issues related to guns.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 22
The first step to getting more women in political office?
Getting more women to run.
Claire Chiara is doing just that.
Get to know the 22-year-old college student and candidate for California Assembly here, and share the story with a friend who you think should launch a campaign of her own someday.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 21
Spent too much time binging Netflix (or mimosas) this weekend?
Here's a quick assignment to help you flex your brain and get ready for Monday:
How much you know about our nation's founding and our political system? See if you could pass the U.S. citizenship test, here.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 20
Celebrities, they're just like us. Some of them even vote!
For today's challenge, check out which candidate your favorite famous person is supporting in our celebrity endorsements slideshow.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 19
Congratulations — you made it to Friday! We're revisiting one of our personal favorite challenges today. Take a few minutes to clear your mind ahead of another crazy week in this presidential campaign.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 18
If the Electoral College actually ends up picking the next president, does your vote really count? You bet your pants it does.
If, by the end of every four-year cycle, you realize you've forgotten the details of one of politics' most esoteric institutions, we're here to help you out. We've laid out how the Electoral College actually works, and why your vote can have way more of an impact than you think it can.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 17
Today, we're taking a look at how presidential politics can impact your own paycheck.
Check out where the two major party candidates stand on various issues related to pay — and take our poll to tell us who you think would be better for your bottom line.
What Does Hillary Clinton Say About Equal Pay?
Where Does Donald Trump Stand On Equal Pay?
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 16
Yes, the presidential race matters. So does the control of Congress.
But the politicians who fill your statehouse and governor's mansion and even city hall make decisions that can have a major impact on your day-to-day lives.
From your body (those abortion clinic restrictions recently shut down by the U.S. Supreme Court were passed by state legislators, after all), to gun control, some of today's biggest political issues are being regulated on the state level.
So, take a few minutes to look up your candidates for state legislature and other statewide offices. It's the first step to making an informed choice for someone who will represent your views and values on these hot-button issues.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 15
Because it's never too early to start thinking about lunch on a Monday, why not plan a meal that a White House hopeful would enjoy?
Hillary Clinton is reportedly a fan of Boca Burgers and anything spicy — she eats peppers and carries hot sauce in her bag. She's also expressed a liking for hummus, fish, Goldfish crackers, and scrambled eggs (one of the few things she says she can cook well).
Donald Trump says he likes burgers, pizza toppings (no dough!), and See's Candies. He prefers his steak well-done and stays away from alcohol. And we can't forget his taste for the Trump Tower taco bowls.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 14
On this lazy Sunday, we're giving you a challenge you can complete while you wait for mimosas and avocado toast at brunch.
Ask a friend if they're registered to vote — and if they plan on casting a ballot.
That's it.
Cheers!
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 13
In less than three months, we'll choose the nation's next commander in chief.
In the meantime, we're giving you the opportunity to vote on which fictional White House inhabitant did it best.
Make your pick, then queue up an episode or two of one of those political shows for some pre-election viewing.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 12
Whether you're getting drinks with a new Tinder match, texting a crush, or spending some quality Netflix & Chill time with your S.O. this weekend, we challenge you to throw some political talk into the mix.
Maybe you'll find you're a perfect (political) match. Or maybe you'll find you have different views.
Maybe you'll even learn something from the other person's political perspective and experience.
Just like most first dates, the possibilities are endless.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 11
We may have a female nominee running at the top of the ticket, but women are still vastly underrepresented in multiple levels of government. Here are some stats to back up that sad reality, courtesy of the Center for American Women and Politics:
-Women represent about 19% of seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, and 20% of seats in the U.S. Senate.
-Less than a quarter of state legislators nationwide are women.
-Just 19 of the 100 largest cities in the U.S. are led by female mayors.
We can't elect more women to public office if they don't run. So think of a friend who you think would be a kick-ass leader and tell her #SheShouldRun. It could be for student council or the Senate, this fall or in five years — the first step is offering encouragement and getting those political wheels turning in her mind today.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 10
There's no shortage of claims, stats, and attacks happening on the campaign trail these days. With so much back and forth, it's sometimes hard to know what — or whom — to believe.
Enter the independent fact-checkers. A number of fastidious journalists and organizations dedicate their days to digging into candidate claims and telling you just how true they really are.
Check out some of the verdicts yourself over at Politifact — then test a friend or two to see if they know what's really up with those things being said on the campaign trail.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 9
Another easy one for you today. Give your friends and social followers a peek into your political mindset by sharing a tweet, snap, Instagram or Facebook post about an issue that matters to you.
Happy sharing!
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 8
Because we know you don’t want to add another major lift to your Monday to-do list, here's a challenge that should take five seconds or less.
Add Election Day to your calendar or planner.
That's it. Seriously.
So, flip ahead to Tuesday, November 8, and mark down your own personal reminder to vote.
See, we told you getting informed and involved in this year's election could be easy.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 7
Are you battling those Sunday night blues by scrolling through your friends' Facebook feeds? Tag a friend in a positive political post and get the conversation started.
To be sure, we're all sick of the massive fights that take place between friends in the comments sections of political posts. But social media can be a force for good this election cycle.
Help inspire friends and family to register to vote and make their voices heard. Just remember to keep the conversation positive, civil, and engaging.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 6
We've all heard a friend, family member, (or even the little voice inside our own heads), say it at some point this election cycle: "If he/she wins, I'm moving to Canada!"
But before you pack that go-bag, read two Canadians' opinions about the benefits (and drawbacks) of heading north.
And if you're serious about moving, Canadian writer Jess Kwong recommends you start practicing using words like "garburator" instead of "garbage disposal" and "chesterfield" instead of "couch." Oh, and don't be offended by the milk options in Canadian grocery stores: "homo milk" is an abbreviation for "homogenized milk."
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 5
It's Friday, Friday, Friday, and time for some positive vibes amid all the rancor of the campaigns.
You meditated on day 3, so now it's time for some visualization. What does your perfect America look like?
Is it a place where men also rally behind a woman's right to safe and legal abortion? Is it a place where candidates from both parties support LGBTQ rights? Do you imagine living in a country where paid family leave is the law, not a perk?
Zeroing in on the issues that matter to you is the first step to making an informed decision at the ballot box this fall. So take some time to brainstorm what kind of country you want to call home in 2017 and beyond.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 4
Glass = shattered.
Hillary Clinton is making history this year as the first female nominee for a major political party. But she's not the only woman running for the White House this year.
Jill Stein, a doctor and longtime political activist, is the presumptive nominee for the Green Party this year (that's expected to become official in early August). And the MD's progressive platform appears to be the fix for some voters still #FeelingTheBern after Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders' exit from the race.
Interested in learning more? We've got you covered with this primer that breaks down everything you need to know about the White House hopeful.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.Day 3
It's been (yet another) crazy week on the campaign trail.
All the rancor and debate can be a total downer — and turnoff — when it comes to getting engaged in politics.
So, take a few minutes today to tune out the noise and clear your head. You can check out R29's handy guide to getting started with meditation if you need some tips or inspiration.
Hopefully adding a little Zen to your life will leave you feeling energized and ready to take action on the issues that matter to you.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 2
By now, you're probably pretty familiar with Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. They've each been (officially) running for president for well over a year.
But the two candidates for the White House's No. 2 gig have been at it for less than a month.
So, who are the respective VP picks, Republican Mike Pence and Democrat Tim Kaine?
TL;DR: Both are white dudes in their 50s who have been in politics for a looong time.
If you're looking (and we hope you are) for a bit more background, we've broken down the things you'll want to know about each vice presidential hopeful.
Click the links below to get to know the candidates in less time than it takes to watch this montage of the best Veep insults.
Need An Introduction To Mike Pence? We Have You Covered
4 Things You Need To Know Abot Tim Kaine
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Day 1
First things first: You can't cast a ballot unless you're registered to vote.
Yes, we know the election is still three-plus months away. Technically, you have plenty of time to make sure that voter registration is completed and up-to-date.
But why put it off when you can get your registration sorted out in less time than it takes to choose the perfect filter for your next snap?
If you're not sure of your status — or, whether you are registered at your current address — you can check it out using CanIVote.org's handy lookup tool. It took one R29 reporter just 18 seconds start to finish to confirm that hers was valid and up-to-date.
If you aren't registered yet, we have options for you! You can download a form at CanIVote.org, or find out whether your state is one of 31 (plus Washington, D.C.!) that will let you do the whole thing online.
Rock the Vote is another great resource that makes registering to vote a super-quick and painless process.
So, whether it's over breakfast, during your lunch break, or paired with a glass of rosé tonight, take a few minutes to cross this vital task off your to-do list.
At the very least, it's one less thing to worry about for the next 100 days.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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