This is the most common excuse people have for not voting. However, history has proven this excuse incorrect. In 1890, by a one-vote margin, Idaho became a state, without that one vote we might only have 49 states. This of course seems like an extreme case and times have changed; however, the power behind your vote remains the same. Regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum, keeping your voice is important. If you do not vote, others will and will ultimately result in others making the decision for you. Your power is in your vote.
Voting is an opportunity for change. If you are unhappy with how things are or even if you are happy, voting will ultimately decide what happens next. Your opinion matters. Are you looking to make a positive impact? Voting and supporting certain movements give you that chance and opportunity. By supporting the candidates and ballot measures, you can help your community, state, and even the nation for the greater good. No matter what level the election, make your voice heard and exercise your right to vote.
Every Vote Counts
Regardless of what some may think, every vote does count. Along with knowing the importance of voting it is also important for citizens to know how to work the voting machines or to mark the ballots. There is a lot of controversy going on right now on the method of voting, but regardless of the outcome, you have to make sure you are informed, so that your vote gets counted. Why is that so important? Because every vote counts! An election might be decided by a single vote and history could be dependent on it. Richard Nixon would have become President of the U.S. in 1960 if one person from each voting place had voted differently. If just one U.S. Senator had voted differently, then John F. Kennedy would not have become the president.
A Lot More Is at Stake Than Just the President
Obviously, the Presidential elections (which happen every four years) may get most of the attention and voting priority, but the power of voting does not stop there. What happens in midterm elections can have an even bigger impact on your life. The American government is built on checks and balances at every level (local, state, and federal). The midterms almost always feature key:
- U.S. senators and congressional representatives
- State senators and representatives
- State governors
- Mayors
- City council members
- County judges
If we truly want our voices to be heard, we can’t ignore all the different levels of offices. The people we elect will either support or oppose key points of the executive branch’s agenda. This is exactly why if you are unhappy or disagree with the president, you need to vote. People who oppose the president will help maintain the check and balance on his power. Or, on the opposite side, if you support the president’s actions, you should vote for people who will help implement their policies.