By: Owen Smetek
November is election month. On even-numbered years, the first Tuesday of every November is the day to vote for federal, state, and local officials. This month, tens of millions of people will cast their vote for the next president of the United States. As college students, many of us are voting for the first time and are unsure how to navigate this time of year. Many young people don’t even bother participating in elections that are relevant to them. So, here are three reasons why it is important to go out and vote!
Your Voice Gets Heard
Voting provides ordinary people the opportunity to express their opinions during the decision-making process. When you cast a vote, you get to select someone who aligns most with your personal beliefs. Through local and national elections, each vote contributes to a collective voice that allows citizens to weigh in on issues they care about. Voting changes your personal preferences into a majority community decision giving everyone a crucial role in the decision-making process on both a small and large scale.
Every Vote Counts
Elections are very close. Many times, elections can be decided by incredibly small margins. For example: the 1876 Presidential Election between Rutherford B. Hayes and Samuel J. Tilden was decided by only ONE electoral vote. Nearly 150 years later, small differences can shape the outcome of an election on any scale. Casting a vote helps determine the results of decisions that reflect community values, making every single vote critical in the decision-making process.
It Helps You Get Engaged In Your Community
When you participate in an election, you tend to become more aware of relevant political issues, policies, and other general happenings. As elections approach, voters will educate themselves on the candidates and issues they advocate for/against. This increased political awareness can lead to even more engagement opportunities such as joining organizations, volunteering at polling places, starting meaningful discourse, and more. Overall, voting can improve a community’s involvement with each other and others.
These are just a few of the reasons why it is important to exercise your right to vote. No matter what you believe or who you vote for, don’t forget to hit the polls!
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