We constantly hear the old cliché, “If you don’t vote, you have no right to complain.”
But why vote? Let me give you reasons why you should. Voting gives you the chance to participate in how our government functions. It allows us to choose leaders that can possibly help improve this country. Voting creates a responsibility for the candidates to be accountable to the public. Yes, I do understand the criticism that voting doesn’t really matter. But one vote makes a difference. The voting process allows citizens to get involved and to share their viewpoints.  Being able to vote is a privilege. What we vote for affects not only us, but the future generation. In order to make changes in our community, we have to let our voice be heard. Not only does it give you credibility as a citizen to say you care about the issues going on around you, it shows you’re taking the time to be active.
Instead of being too focused on voting for people on reality shows, people need to be more aware about what’s going on in their country and vote for things that actually matter.
Some propositions college students should consider looking into more: temporary taxes to fund education (prop 30), a two year state budget (prop 31), and funds for education and early childhood programs (prop 38).
To become informed, we need to listen to debates, research online, see where each candidate stands and what each proposition is about. We need to remember that no candidate is the same. As citizens, we shouldn’t restrict our voting just to one party alone. Being able to look at each candidate as an individual and not by what party they represent is a good step to take. Even ignoring the third party candidates is an injustice, since they are worth looking into as well.
Stressing the importance of voting is vital- sure, we may not agree with everything that the candidate or proposition has to offer, but nothing is perfect. If we’re all waiting for that perfect thing that stands for everything we all envision, we might as well just move to Utopia- it just doesn’t exist. We must weigh our options and decide to vote on “the lesser of two evils.” Voting without learning about what and who you’re voting for is just as worse as the person who decides not to vote. Voting is a noble statement because it shows you care about your opinion. Whether we are happy with how the local and national government is, at least knowing you have voted is what truly counts.
It’s not rocket science- do yourself a favor: read, be informed, and vote. It’s as simple as that, because your voice does matter.
If you aren’t registered to vote yet, get on it. The registration deadline is Oct. 22 for the Nov. 6 general elections and the Senate District 4 Special Primary Election.