For most of the candidates up for election today, over a year of planning has gone into making today a success. While multiple positions are up for grabs today, the most heated race is the one between Joni Ernst and Bruce Braley.

Whether it is through television, the Internet or print, most everyone has seen the intense marketing campaigns both have been pushing. With a spot in the Senate on the line, it is no surprise that both candidates have been pulling out all the stops.

Most, if not all, students and faculty here at Iowa State are eligible to vote, and it has never been easier with multiple voting locations cast throughout campus and the greater Ames area. With subjects like Social Security, national debt and student loans at the center of each debate and conversation, it is important to pay attention to what each candidate is bringing to the table and their stance. Whether you were born and raised here in Iowa, or are just here for four to five years for an education, the events that are set to unfold today will effect us all. For that reason, get educated and get out there and be heard.

Follow the Iowa State community as they vote here: https://twitter.com/hashtag/CyVotes14 and contribute your own tweets by using the hashtag #CyVotes14