Why Every Vote is Important

Voting. It is easy to fall into the trap of being complacent or disinterested or just plain frustrated with the whole process. Our nation's vigorous population is made up of people of every race, religion and creed. It may seem like democracy doesn’t work, or that it only works for people who don’t agree with you. Yet the founding fathers of the United States of America had a beautiful idea. They dreamed up this republic we live in, they tried to see into the future and create rules for a nation that would stand the test of time. And here we are over 225 years later and the USA is still here in all its glory and you still have a voice, a say in who represents you at all levels of government.

Election season can feel draining. The debates are hashed and re-hashed. Ads berate you while you are trying to drive to work, watch your favorite show or surf the internet. Candidates try to get their message out, convince you to vote for them and not their opponent. The election season may feel personal, particularly during presidential elections when it feels like so much more is on the line. Talking politics with friends and family can be uncomfortable. But try, ask their opinion, share yours, get more information and spread it around to people you know. Just always remember we are all people, we all have the right to our own opinions and don’t let special interest or campaign rhetoric invade your heart and generate anger, fear or hate for others.

Things your vote could do at the local, regional and national level:

• Reduce global warming and traffic congestion by approving a new mass transit package for your city.
• Defeat a local initiative to limit the rights of a minority group.
  Elect a new land commissioner in your state who will work with private interests and conservation groups to find a better balance.
• Send a corrupt Senator or Congressperson packing and replace them with a fresh face and a new chance in Congress.
• Elect a President of the United States who you feel can lead us best through the next four years.

But if you don’t vote, you’ll never know.