Yesterday, I heard a caller on a talk radio show about voting call in and say that she wasn't planning to vote in this election. Her rational was that the polling showed a landslide victory for the Republicans and she was a Democrat.
REALLY?!?
I think some have forgotten how hard fought our RIGHT and PRIVILEGE to vote was won.
As a woman, and a citizen, I never take for granted that I have the honor of, and the right to, cast my vote in the United States of America. Not all of my not-so-distant relatives had that right.
It doesn't matter what the outcome, it is still our duty as U.S. Citizens to cast our vote. The argument that 'it doesn't make a difference' is uninformed--and frankly selfish. Where does it say that you only need to vote when you think you will win?
It can be frustrating, when your candidate loses and it can be satisfying when he/she wins. Whatever the result, however, knowing that you took a stand and participated in the discussion earns you the right to cheer or complain about the outcome. Frankly, if you don't vote, I really don't care about your opinion. If you care enough to take a stand and have an opinion, then care enough to get to the polls. Period.
I do wish it were easier to vote in the U.S. A Friday and Saturday election period would surely result in greater participation. I am sympathetic to those whose work schedule makes voting difficult. But to those people, I would say that absentee voting is alive and well and works for people who have a challenging schedule (although it is too late to take advantage of that option for this election). When I had a less flexible schedule, I got up earlier than usual to vote. I made sure it happened. I have never missed an election--even when I traveled heavily for business.
I am thankful everyday for those troops who fight for our rights and Democracy. The greatest honor we can show them is to exercise those rights by getting to the polls and participating in the national election.
If you are a Fairfax County Resident, you can find additional information about your polling place and other voting information at the Fairfax County website, Office of Elections.
Get out, VOTE and make your voice heard! Don't ever take this privilege for granted.
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