Some of you may be considering opting out of Tuesday's election, disgusted and disillusioned with the entire process. I'll admit that I've had the same thoughts. But I am going to vote on Tuesday and here are ten reasons why I think you should too.
1) The most obvious: So many of our ancestors died so we could have the opportunity. They may not have been able to foresee that voting, for many of us, has boiled down to a choice between the lesser of two evils. But they fought for full citizenship rights and voting is central to that.
2) To help President Obama. The President has been called everything but a child of God by his political enemies. And the media, always eager to find fault, have created controversies were none existed (i.e., President Obama's recent interview with comedian Jon Stewart). A strong showing by his supporters would put some of these naysayers' antics to rest -- at least temporarily.
3) It's essentially free. The only costs are time and transportation. Since most polling places are close to home, costs for both should be minimal.
4) To set a good example. Children need to see their parents and other adults participate in American democracy. Thus, they will understand their role as adults and will, hopefully, emulate the exercise.
5) To shut up the pundits and prognosticators. The political pundits have been predicting that Black voters and progessive voters are disillusioned and will not go to the polls. In fact, they've already predicted the outcome before the voters have had their say. Wouldn't it be nice for them to have egg on their faces on election night?
6) To be a counterweight to the right wing nuts. Many of us spent lots of time and treasure in 2008 to remove right-wingers from office. Let's not allow them back in simply because of sheer laziness.
7) To be heard on local issues of importance. Besides the U.S. Senate and Congressional races, there will be statewide offices and local initiatives on most ballots. Most of the issues that closely affect voters are right in their own back yards.
8) To inject new blood into the political system. Incumbency carries a lot of benefits and advantages, primarily the receipt of political contributions by wealthy donors. Voting allows new candidates an opportunity to get elected and unseat some of the entrenched politicians who treat these positions like they own them.
9) To be a good citizen. Remember what you learned in elementary school social studies class? And something about pulling the lever does make you feel better.
10) If you don't vote and the political environment does not improve, you have no one to blame but yourself.
I totally agree!
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