With an election on the horizon, the idea of voting seems daunting, especially with the complex moral issues that come with choosing between the candidates given. Who do you choose? How do you know you’re making the right choice? Does your vote even matter? And while it may not seem like it, these questions are valid – and you are not alone in those thoughts. Voters of all ages question if their vote matters in the long run. And to answer the question, it does matter. Your vote matters. 

As citizens of a nation that is constantly divided by two political parties hellbent on destroying each other – no matter the consequences their constituents face – the only option other than activism is voting, especially in local and state elections. When we advocate and vote, we establish our place in the systems given. However,  at times it may seem pointless as more harmful right-wing and downright scary legislation continues to pass. When we doubt the power of our vote, it’s best to look back to the 2020 election. In the case that young voters are united and use their voices, good outcomes do occur. 

If 10,000 people believe that their vote doesn’t matter – and decide not to cast a ballot, it could change the tide of the election very easily. For example, during the 2000 election, Al Gore lost Florida by 537 votes costing him the presidency. Voting can change things drastically in each state, but some more than others. For people who live in swing states, this matter puts pressure on the amount of votes going in because of the Electoral College. Some states carry more “points” than others, making their votes extremely critical when it comes to close races. Additionally, we shouldn’t focus on Presidential elections alone – voting during state and local elections is just as important or even more important. These elections will affect you and your family more profoundly in the long run, due to the large influence that a Governor has over state laws. 

But even if we don’t look at voting from a statistical perspective, we also need to remember that voting wasn’t always a right given to everyone here in the U.S. Black and Indigenous people, impoverished communities, and women have all been victims of unfair and harsh voting limitations in the past – and present. Although we have the Voting Rights Act of 1965 it can still be difficult for vulnerable communities like these to cast their votes. While it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the complexities of politics, we shouldn’t forget the power our votes hold. Remember, if you can, you should always take the opportunity to vote. 

For this upcoming election, you can make your voice heard by voting, contacting representatives, and putting pressure on the Congressmen in your districts. You can register to vote here! And for any other inquiries for representatives or districts, just type in your city or county and ‘District Office” and take control of what is happening in your area.

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Sources :

https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/why-voting-important/

https://naacp.org/find-resources/history-explained/legislative-milestones/voting-rights-act-1965

https://www.history.com/news/swing-states-presidential-elections

Photo by Elliott Stallion on Unsplash

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