Get Out the Vote

This is something that I discussed in a previous post, but with the election coming up, I find myself thinking about it more and more. This November, a lot of people will not bother to vote. I can understand the reasoning in a lot of cases, but it's something that bothers me greatly.

One thing that bothers me is the same as when people do whatever they can to avoid jury duty. They're willing to reap the benefits of living in this country, but can't be bothered to engage in the responsibilities inherent in citizenship.

But mainly what gets to me about refusing to vote is the concept of voter apathy. The idea that your vote doesn't count. Fortunately, this trend is changing, albeit slowly. The last few election cycles, at least during Presidential elections, has been the highest then it was since the 60s, but we're still seeing around 40% of people not going to the ballot. But there's still a lot of people who don't think their vote makes a difference.

I disagree. For starters, by not voting, all you're doing is ensuring that your vote doesn't count. The best way to make sure your voice isn't heard is to stay silent.

Try a little thought experiment here. Say voter turnout this year is 55% (slightly less than 2012). That leaves 45% not voting. Now imagine, for the sake of the argument, that most or all of that 45% aren't voting because they think both Trump and Clinton are poor choices (and I think this theory might have some validity). Now imagine they think that a third party candidate would be a great choice for President, but they are staying home because they think voting third party is throwing your vote away. Just think if that 45% decided to head to their polling place on or before November 8th, and they all voted for that third party candidate.

I'm not saying that person would win, but it would definitely change things. People would perceive this so-called two party system differently. People might reconsider the power their vote has. Clinton or Trump might still win the majority and thus the White House, but they might not feel so secure in the Oval Office.

Now, I'm not saying that if you vote third party it'll fix all our problems. I'm not even telling you that toy should vote third party. Make your own decision. Vote for who you think is the right candidate. You don't have to go with the lesser of two evils. If the person you want isn't on the ballot, write them in. Vote however you want, but for Heaven's sake, vote for someone. It's something to consider.

And if you don't vote, don't try and tell me it's my fault that the system is full of corrupt politicians. I'm making an effort here, which is more than you did.

-Long Days and Pleasant Nights