Each November, American citizens have the opportunity to exercise their right to vote.
The occasion to have one’s voice and opinions recognized is most commonly associated with Presidential elections, though it is imperative to understand that important elections also occur in so-called “off years.” With roughly one month left before the 2018 midterm elections that will take place on Tuesday, November 6th, voter registrations drives are ramping up across the country. College campuses are specifically targeted by local and state board of elections committees and other groups in order to increase the number of young voters. In Ohio, specifically, efforts to register voters continue as the registration deadline of October 9th quickly approaches. At the University of Akron, this is no different. Get Out The Vote campaigns, absentee ballot tabling events, and engagement from the Office of Student Life are just a few of the ways young people are being encouraged to complete their registration.
This year, specifically, partisan politics have been at the forefront of nearly every headline, making it impossible for even the busiest of college students to avoid in some way. Most recently, the hearings held surrounding the alleged assault of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford by Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh have catapulted into the national spotlight. Deep-seated resentment against those looking to push through the nomination despite credible testimony has led to increased disapprovals of current government, and along with talk of a coming “blue wave” meant to elect a majority of Democrats back into Congress, the events of the past few weeks have made the weight of the upcoming midterm more known than ever.
For these reasons, and for those stated below, it is of the utmost importance that everyone registers himself or herself to vote—especially young people.
Registering to Vote Allows You to Have a Say in Politics
Regardless of whether there is a single issue you feel passionate about or a myriad of ideas you hope to advocate for, registering to vote allows you to have a say in government. The notion that “my vote doesn’t matter” is completely false and in no way helpful. Especially during midterm years, your vote has the power to affect local and state government policy decisions, which have a direct impact on your life. By registering, you are showing your commitment to expressing the validity of your ideas.
Registering to Vote Can Ignite a Movement
Increasing voter turnout, specifically among younger generations, often signals more progressive change in terms of leadership and policy. If you’re frustrated by the decisions made by your representatives, voting sends a clear message that constituents are unhappy with the direction officials are taking them. When large numbers of voters register by the deadline, including women and minorities, cultural undercurrents begin to roll forward as more diverse participants take part in upholding their values and beliefs.
Registering to Vote is the First Step in Confronting Corruption
Registering not only yourself, but also those around you who may be on the fence about voting, is a positive first step in defending the principles of democracy. Too often we hear or see political power consolidated by corporate interests that care little to none about the average person. Registering to vote, and then following through in November, is a significant way to challenge misplaced interests and begin shifting the focus toward how government can work for the majority of people.
Ultimately, every election in our increasingly contentious political and social environment matters. The choices each individual makes also matter, and the only way to ensure that we hold representatives accountable for their actions and voice our priorities on Election Day is to first register ourselves to vote.
Visit USAGov or Summit County Board of Elections to learn more.