As we approach this crucial presidential election, your thoughtful evaluation of the candidates is needed more than ever. The wide-ranging questions provided here are designed to help you carefully assess each candidate’s policies, values, and leadership qualities. These questions on job opportunities, healthcare, economic fairness, international relations, climate change, immigration, racism, social justice, and needed infrastructure transcend party lines and focus on core issues that impact the future of our country and the world.

The diversity of these questions offers an abundance of starting points for reflecting on the merits of each candidate, while also considering the diverse responsibilities of the presidency. The questions are organized alphabetically into three categories: (a) “Does the candidate…?” (b) “Is the candidate committed to…?” and (c) “Will the candidate…?” The questions can also serve as starting points for group discussions.

Use these questions (also in printable pdf format) to think critically and creatively about who would best embody the leadership needed to bring the United States and the world to a brighter future. Thank you for engaging in this vital process.

Does the candidate …?

Does the candidate bridge divides and promote unity – or fuel polarization?

Does the candidate demonstrate the integrity, experience, and competence necessary to effectively lead and uphold the responsibilities of the presidency?

Does the candidate have a humane and practical approach to the immigration and refugee crises, balancing the need for border security with the humanitarian needs of immigrants and refugees?

Does the candidate have a plan to create quality jobs and expand access to career training to prepare workers for the demands of a changing economy?

Does the candidate possess the physical health, mental sharpness, emotional balance, and vibrant energy required to handle the demands and responsibilities of the office of the presidency?

Does the candidate prioritize the rights, health, and economic well-being of women as vital members of our society?

Does the candidate rely on facts and expert advice – or spread false and misleading information?

Does the candidate respect a woman’s ability to make her own healthcare decisions, including access to abortion and infertility treatments?

Does the candidate support accountable, community-focused policing while ensuring public safety and justice for all?

Does the candidate support continued assistance to Ukraine in defending its sovereignty, while promoting diplomatic efforts to achieve a lasting and just peace?

Does the candidate uphold human rights and democratic values, both at home and abroad, and promote freedom and justice for all?

Is the candidate committed to …?

Is the candidate committed to a comprehensive approach to the opioid and substance abuse crises including prevention, treatment, and support for affected individuals and communities?

Is the candidate committed to addressing gender inequality and promoting policies that ensure equal rights, fair pay, and protections against discrimination based on gender and identity?

Is the candidate committed to combating racism, opposing discrimination, and promoting equality and justice for all communities?

Is the candidate committed to disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, both in the United States and abroad?

Is the candidate committed to tackling racial discrimination, reforming the criminal justice system, and promoting economic equity?

Is the candidate committed to improving the health, safety, education, and well-being of children?

Is the candidate committed to increasing access to affordable housing, addressing homelessness, and improving fair housing policies?

Is the candidate committed to leading global efforts on environmental protection and fostering international cooperation to address climate change?

Is the candidate committed to lowering healthcare costs, building public health infrastructure, supporting research for chronic diseases, and ensuring universal access to quality healthcare?

Is the candidate committed to modernizing infrastructure, including roads, bridges, public transportation, clean energy systems, water management systems, digital access, and electric vehicle networks, to support sustainable growth and enhance the quality of life for all citizens?

Is the candidate committed to promoting mutually beneficial international relations and partnerships through dialogue and cooperation?

Is the candidate committed to protecting school students and preventing gun violence in our communities?

Is the candidate committed to strengthening global health systems and international cooperation to ensure that humanity is better equipped to manage future pandemics, chronic health crises, and emerging health threats?

Is the candidate committed to strengthening global security and effectively countering terrorism, both at home and abroad?

Is the candidate committed to supporting stability, justice, and human rights in the Middle East, while pursuing a lasting peace solution that respects the needs of both Palestinians and Israelis?

Will the candidate …?

Will the candidate address global financial inequality and support sustainable development so as to benefit the people in developing nations, the environment, and the global economy?

Will the candidate address the college debt crisis by making higher education more affordable and providing relief for struggling borrowers?

Will the candidate address the wealth gap by taxing the super-wealthy to fund public services and infrastructure for greater economic equality?

Will the candidate effectively manage tensions with Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, while protecting national security and promoting lasting diplomatic solutions?

Will the candidate hold corporations accountable and prioritize the interests of workers, consumers, and the environment over excessive corporate profits?

Will the candidate improve public education by increasing funding, ensuring equitable access, and supporting the success of all students?

Will the candidate promote international trade policies that protect both American and global workers, boost economic growth, and build partnerships for global peace?

Will the candidate protect voting rights, reduce barriers to participation, and safeguard the integrity of our elections?

Will the candidate reduce pollution, address climate change, and protect the environment for future generations?

Will the candidate strengthen international alliances and uphold defense commitments to ensure national and global security?

Will the candidate uphold transparency, accountability, and integrity – or have they shown a pattern of self-interest and dishonesty?

Thank you for engaging thoughtfully in this vital process!