Direct answer: It isn’t clear which election you’re referring to, so the best way to determine what this particular election is for is to check the official election notices for your location (city, county, state) or the government elections website. If you share your country, state or locality, a precise explanation can be given right away. Context and what to look for:

• The ballot measures or races on your ballot will indicate what’s being decided (e.g., governor, mayor, state legislature, constitutional amendments, local propositions, school boards, or congressional seats).
• Ballot materials usually list: the election date, offices up for election, and a short description of each measure or race.
• In the U.S., common off-cycle elections include gubernatorial races, state legislative elections, municipal elections (mayor, city council), and local referendums or amendments. In other countries, the formats differ, but official election websites provide the exact purposes and timelines.

How I can help next:

• If you provide your location (country/state/city) and the date of the election, I can tell you exactly what each race and measure on your ballot is for, including approximate timelines, candidate names, and the implications of the measures.