Unless you live under a rock, you are aware that there is an election going on. And it’s a big deal. For me, this is the first presidential election I can cast my vote. Young people, like you and me, have always been criticized for not participating. But this is an election we can’t choose to be lazy or not care. Go out and cast your vote! It’s not a question of who you are voting for or why you choose to vote for them, but it’s just a matter of doing it.
This election itself has been a media phenomenon. There has been more media coverage across the board than ever before. We now follow every aspect of the candidates lives and form opinions on every little thing they do. So why not act upon those opinions and do your part? I know some people may give the argument that “What can one person do?” But one vote really does make a difference. The only one that can speak for you is you. Voice your opinion and do it. Still not convinced? Here are a couple more reasons to mark up that ballot.
College isn’t forever. Within the next four years we will be graduating, and whoever is elected in November 2016 will still be in office even when the current freshmen graduate. That means the decisions they are making will effect you, even if you may not think they will.
Voting is a right that many people have fought so hard to grant to everyone. People worked hard to give you that right and you should take advantage of it. It is a platform where you can voice your opinion on who should lead our country and how. Elections need to hear the voices of everyone, from a wide range of backgrounds, with a wide range of needs. Go out there are do it because someone a long time ago fought so you could.
If you care about something, this is your way to put it on the agenda. If you care about certain issues and don’t see action or see action you don’t like, voting is the way you can voice your opinion. One vote matters, because when they come together they are powerful. When elections are decided between small margins, those few extra votes make a difference.
Lastly, you’re an adult. It’s your civic duty to do so even if you choose to abstain or write in. It’s also your duty to do your research. Care not just about your country, but about your community and vote for someone who you can stand behind. It doesn’t matter who you choose to vote for, rather that you vote for someone and you have a real reason for doing so. Read the news, listen to the debates, follow the primaries. Being educated about the issues will make your vote mean something not only to you, but to others.
If you missed your state’s primary it’s totally ok, but start following the election process now because you have until November 8th. Your vote makes a difference.
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