Dear Patriots,

This is a big week, as the midterm elections are here.

Hopefully, you registered to vote either at Mason or in your home district by absentee ballot. This is an incredibly important election. Congress has arguably the most power in the federal government, and whichever way the midterms go will change the path of legislation in this country for at least the next two years.

Your congressmen and other elected officials are your direct path through American democracy, and your vote affects everyone. Please go out and vote on Tuesday if you have not already, either in Merten Hall or at your designated polling station. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. statewide.

Elsewhere at Mason, basketball season is starting. You can check out our season preview in the Sports section, and expect to see a lot of basketball content in the future.

Additionally in this issue, you’ll see our coverage of the Pittsburgh massacre in News, the Mason arts community in Culture and a letter from Transparent GMU in Opinions.

It’s getting cold out, so keep warm. Drink some coffee. Treat yourself well leading up to finals. As always, reach out to us at masonfourthestate@gmail.com if you have questions, comments or concerns.

Sincerely,

Alexander Shedd

Editor-in-Chief