Unless you have been living under a rock, you have probably heard all about the upcoming American Presidential election. November 3 is a huge day for our citizens, especially considering the hyperpolarized political climate we are dealing with currently.
As is always the case, voting is of the utmost importance. With that being said, voting in this particular election is arguably one of, if not, the most pivotal actions that can be taken right now. The elected candidate will have the power to create policies that directly impact yourself, your peers and future generations for years to come.
And as I’m sure many are aware, the two big candidates, Donald Trump and Joe Biden, are on opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of policies and values.
So, here are some reasons as to why you should take charge of your future:
1. It’s your voice.
Voting is how elected officials know what their constituents value, what they like, what they don’t like, and so on. If you choose not to vote, you give up your voice!
Suddenly, other people decide for you, regardless of whether or not you agree.
2. It’s your constitutional right.
Due to the 14th, 15th, 19th, 24th, and 26th Amendments, there can be no stipulations based on race, ethnicity, gender or age in regard to voting. Minority/Marginalized communities, , women, and even young people were unable to vote for a long time. So,, don’t give up the right that your predecessors have fought so hard to earn!
3. It’s your money.
Your money (i.e. taxes) pay to keep the government running. Local, state, and federal elected officials make the policies that decide where your money goes.
Be sure to vote for candidates that align with your ideas of where and how your money should be spent.
4. It’s your future.
As is previously stated, the policies that elected officials make will impact you for years to come. Voting ensures that your desired future is attainable. If there is something unlikeable about any given aspect of a current policy, then you have the power to change it—at the local level, state level, and federal level.
When voting, it’s important to also consider that it’s not only your future at stake, but also your childrens’ future. This point is especially true for elections like this upcoming one, since presidents obviously possess massive amounts of power compared to someone at the local level of government, for example. Many presidential policies have long-lasting effects that are evident in our daily lives, even years after that president leaves office.
5. It’s your reputation.
People who vote are super cool. Nothing is cooler than making your voice heard and taking charge of your future. Young people especially–who are often ridiculed by older generations for not caring about politics or participating–need to prove how cool they are!
Vote this November to prove older generations wrong!
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Overall, if it isn’t clear by now, voting is one of the most important actions that we, as Americans, can take. Our government is designed for citizen participation, so don’t let someone else make decisions for you!
Make a plan to vote this fall—either by absentee ballot or in-person at the polls—and get it done. Plus, you may even get one of those fun “I Voted” stickers to post about and flex on everyone.