Voters across the country are considering ballot measures that could change their states’ policies on a wide range of issues. 

Abortion: Five states are voting on abortion rights, including Michigan, Kentucky, California, Vermont, and Montana. While three of the measures would protect abortion access, Kentucky’s measure would bolster the state’s abortion restrictions, and Montana’s measure would grant legal personhood to “born-alive” fetuses who are born prematurely or survive an attempted abortion and require medical interventions to save them. 

Marijuana: Five states are voting on marijuana legalization: Arkansas, Maryland, Missouri, North Dakota and South Dakota. They would join 19 states and Washington, D.C. in allowing recreational marijuana use for adults. 

Other Issues: Other states are voting on raising the minimum wage, requiring a photo ID to vote, and requiring a permit and safety training for gun purchases. Culver City, California is considering joining several other cities in allowing 16-year-olds to vote in municipal elections. 

How the Media Covered It: Right-rated outlets were more likely to focus on tax reform measures and New York City’s racial equity initiative. Left-rated outlets were more likely to highlight Oregon's gun control measure. Both groups covered abortion and marijuana with dedicated articles.