I am happy to say that I voted just before 7AM this morning. It would be a shame if I didn't...my voting location is just across the street from my house. I think it is everyone's duty to vote, but I don't want to get too preachy about it. Some people really don't want to, and they have their reasons. My brother conveniently left the country this week, and but did not vote. He dislikes both candidates, and wouldn't even consider voting for a third party candidate or just "pulling the lever." Even though I strongly disagree with his choice, I am not going to browbeat him about it. It was his choice, and he could not be persuaded otherwise. I know that I will always exercise my right to vote, no matter where I live or how I feel about the candidates running for office.
I agree that it's everyone's personal choice whether or not to vote, but I err on the side of urging people to do it.
I'd like to hope that anyone who chooses not to vote is doing so in an informed way, or to make a statement, but in reality I think some people just don't care or feel apathetic or don't want to think about it or just don't show up at the polls out of laziness or intimidation. That is so unfortunate.
That said, I am excited right now - voter turnout today was great!
November 4, 2008 at 11:54 PM
Do I even have to say anything?? Get your butt out there and VOTE!
Find out where your polling place is and when it opens, and get on that line as early as you can. Early voting already showed how long many of these lines will be, but please be patient and try to carve out enough time. Maybe you should bring a game and bond with your fellow citizens who are waiting with you. Or some good reading material. Also bring some water and snacks. Whatever you need to keep you sane and entertained.
A few reminders: -Bring your ID just in case and your voter registration card if you have it. -If you make it to the poll location before the polls close but are waiting in line, contact your board of elections if they try to turn you away. Laws vary by state, but make sure you cast your vote. -Keep in mind the voting myths: wearing campaign gear (just cover it up), being arrested for outstanding warrants or tickets (simply not true), losing financial aid (many student voting rights are confusing). Don't let them take away your right to vote! -Check your ballot (whether electronic, paper, or lever) before finishing, especially because problems with machines already started with early voting. -If they challenge your eligibility for whatever reason, insist on filling out a provisional ballot.
Most importantly, keep this information handy to report any problems: -Use Twitter Vote Report to keep track of long lines, problems with machines, etc. Check it out. -Use the Election Protection hotline by calling 866-OUR-VOTE (or 1-888-Ve-Y-Vota for Spanish speakers). -Contact your local board of elections, particularly for voter suppression or suspicious activity. You can use GoVote.org to find out the number you can call.
For those of you who can't vote (either because you're not citizens, didn't register on time, or are choosing not to), please considering volunteering your time today as poll workers, or by driving the elderly or disabled to the polls, or by reminding others to vote, etc. It's a great thing for anyone to do.
And for everyone who's volunteering, THANK YOU SO MUCH! You all rock!
"Election Day!"
2 Comments -
I am happy to say that I voted just before 7AM this morning. It would be a shame if I didn't...my voting location is just across the street from my house. I think it is everyone's duty to vote, but I don't want to get too preachy about it. Some people really don't want to, and they have their reasons. My brother conveniently left the country this week, and but did not vote. He dislikes both candidates, and wouldn't even consider voting for a third party candidate or just "pulling the lever." Even though I strongly disagree with his choice, I am not going to browbeat him about it. It was his choice, and he could not be persuaded otherwise. I know that I will always exercise my right to vote, no matter where I live or how I feel about the candidates running for office.
November 4, 2008 at 6:48 PM
I agree that it's everyone's personal choice whether or not to vote, but I err on the side of urging people to do it.
I'd like to hope that anyone who chooses not to vote is doing so in an informed way, or to make a statement, but in reality I think some people just don't care or feel apathetic or don't want to think about it or just don't show up at the polls out of laziness or intimidation. That is so unfortunate.
That said, I am excited right now - voter turnout today was great!
November 4, 2008 at 11:54 PM