First of all, I'm sorry about your elections, I have heard about this unfortunate turn of events and wish you safety.
About VPNs: it depends on the provider, so few things you should know. First of all, google if a VPN that you are considering using stores no-logs. Most of VPN providers claim they do, so you will need to do your research, there were incidents when "no-logs" VPN gave out browsing information to governmental agencies or other third party agencies. NO FREE VPNs, that is the golden rule IMHO, every developer has to acquire funds somewhere, so do Free VPNs, as the saying goes, if it's free - you're the product.
When choosing a VPN be sure to check the location where they are based at. Avoid 14-eye countries (list here
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UKUSA_Agreement#9_Eyes,_14_Eyes,_and_other_"third_parties"), these are the ones that can send their agents to knock on VPN providers doors and ask for information. For example, I'm using a new VPN called Surfshark, they are located in The British Virgin Islands with no data retention laws, meaning they are not obliged to store and keep any information and nobody can come knocking on their door asking for some.
Third, take some additional steps: use privacy badger, use software that would hide your user agent (that's your browsers details), when on VPN - before doing anything check your IP address online if there are no IP or DNS leaks. Use strong different passwords, use encrypted e-mail, use encrypted chat platforms. Even though a VPN encrypts your traffic and hides your IP, all of these are necessary if you're living under conditions of oppression. If my English language was a bit too hard I apologize and feel free to ask any questions, I will be glad to answer all of them.
