Our government was set up to be a government of the people, by the people and for the people. It was founded on the ideas of personal liberty and individual responsibility. With that said, exercising the Constitutional right to vote is a cornerstone of our democracy. The old adage says, “you can’t win if you don’t play.” The truth is, if you choose to neglect your right to vote, then you’re effectively giving up your voice and letting someone else speak for you.
Don’t let someone else speak for you this Nov. 4.
Elected officials make decisions that affect our day-to-day lives, from our children’s education to the amount of taxes we pay. We ought to be concerned about who we elect to power, and then we need to show up at the polls on election day.
Low voter turnout is a problem our country has faced for many years. According to www.fairvote.org, low voter turnout is attributed to political disengagement and the belief that voting for one candidate or party over another will do little to change outcomes or public policy. Only an average of 40 percent of voting-age Americans participate in most midterm elections. Shamefully, it will probably be far less in Lee County.
Information on candidates running in this election is readily available. A quick Google search can provide you with the main points of a candidate’s platform and qualifications.
Polling places are usually open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. but vary among locations. If you’re unsure of your assigned poll location or its hours of operation, you can contact the Board of Registrars by calling 737-3635.
Nov. 4 will be the first general election to take place under Alabama’s new law requiring voters to present a photo ID when casting their ballot. According to www.alabamavotes.gov, there are a number of accepted documents. Don’t forget this important item when you head to the polls.
Founding Father of the United States Samuel Adams said, “Let each citizen remember at the moment he is offering his vote that he is not making a present or a compliment to please an individual – or at least that he ought not so to do; but that he is executing one of the most solemn trusts in human society for which he is accountable to God and his country.”
Will you make your voice heard?
