Like the first rocket burst on the night of July 4, this election season has inspired excitement in millions of voters. The number of registered voters in the U.S. is the highest in history, and we have reached the home stretch – 13 days left until Election Day, with 10 days of early voting left. The final step is to get out there and "pull the lever."
Yes, it’s easier to register than to actually vote, but what’s the point? This energized electorate needs to complete the circle and cast their ballots, regardless of party affiliation, or lack thereof.
This is especially important for the youngest of the electorate, the most elusive of potential voters. Voting helps set a precedent and sends a message – as the "Greatest Generation" leaves us, it isn’t replaced by the "Worst Generation."
One may argue that voting in America is always a choice of the "lesser of two evils." This is viewed as a cop-out by many, and just an excuse to avoid standing in line for an hour or a thin veil cast over apathy. If this is truly your opinion, then reserve your right to not vote at the polling machine.
Yes, you don’t have to pick anyone. Leave everything blank. It sends a message to those who need to hear it, instead of friends and family who probably don’t care to hear the "lesser of two evils" shtick for the umpteenth time.
For those who are registered, vote. Make an educated decision. Pick up the League of Women’s Voters election guide and find out who is running and for what. Be prepared and avoid feeling like a deer in the headlights. Select candidates based on knowledge and issues, or don’t select anyone and stick your thumb in the eye of "the man." Just get out there and keep the cogs of democracy turning.
Webb, a political science and creative writing senior and Opinion editor, can be reached via [email protected]
