“Every election is determined by the people who show up.” -Larry J. Sabato
Many people think that “my vote doesn’t count” and “it really doesn’t matter if I vote.” This may be the furthest thing from the truth. Not only is it important to vote to set an example for generations to come, as well as for the generations who don’t have a say yet, it’s important to vote for yourself. How many times have you complained or been annoyed with how things are run? The way to have a say in decision-making is to exercise your right to vote.
Our nation is a representative democracy founded on the principle that we “the people” elect officials to represent us. By not voting, you are choosing to let others make the decisions about the future direction of the country and your views may go unrepresented. Part of what makes America strong is that we, as individuals, have the ability to share our views. We all have issues important to who we are and the groups we belong to that need to be heard. There is no better way to express your opinion than in the voting booth.
If you think your vote doesn’t matter, think again. There have been numerous elections where the outcome was decided by a small number of votes. Don’t sit on the sidelines and possibly feel regret that you didn’t get involved if the election doesn’t go the way you want it to.
Many people throughout the world are still fighting for a right to vote, a right and privilege that we are lucky to have. We have a voice and a way to change the country, so we need to make our voices heard by voting.
This story was written by BSU student Catherine Rafuse.