Why vote?
It’s a question too many people ignore. The answer is obvious. You should vote because its part of your responsibility as an adult citizen. It’s also your constitutionally guaranteed right to help select the people who will govern us locally, statewide, and nationally.
The government is using your tax dollars for infrastructure, defense, maintaining order, and helping in national emergencies. Federal programs protect workers, distribute Social Security benefits, administer Medicaid and Medicare, fund vital research, help our most vulnerable citizens, and so much more.
Would you go to a restaurant and let a random stranger order your dinner and use your credit card to pay for it? What if they ordered something you’re deathly allergic to or something completely gross and disgusting? What if it’s the most expensive, but tiniest item on the menu?
You wouldn’t like it at all.
Why are you allowing random strangers’ votes to decide who gets to spend your money and what they get to prioritize instead of making your wishes known with your vote?
I’m not saying every candidate you select will win if you vote, but you have the power to put them one vote closer to winning. If enough people get out and vote real change is possible.
It’s not enough to vote once every four years in national elections. Political movements begin at the local level. Local politicians who misuse funds or enact arbitrary law become state politicians and eventually national politicians who will continue to do whatever they can get away with.
It’s sad to think that people would rather vote for the next American Idol than the next mayor, governor, U.S. senator, or president.
Please vote in every election. Make your voice heard and in the words of President Abraham Lincoln, “Summon your better angels.”