Well, it's that time of year again when presidential candidates are shoving information (and lies) into your head. The TV commercials all seem to be about voting for so-and-so and not (fill in the blank) because (insert something terrible they did when they were in college). It's all super overwhelming. College campuses are also having elections for SGA. Everywhere you look on campus you can find a face plastered on a wall or flyers on tables screaming "VOTE FOR ME". Young people (AKA you) have been known to NOT exercise their right to vote and that's a downright shame. We have to deal with whoever is in office just like everyone else so why don't we try and get who we want? Since voting is so very close, here are five reasons you should go out and vote:
1. Our vote is underestimated.
Trend analysts often overlook youth and aim their political ads toward middle-aged adults. Why? Because year after year less eligible voters actually register and vote. We still have a voice and can change the way we are often portrayed. Aren't you a rebellious young student? Yes, yes you are so go out there and do the unexpected...VOTE!
2. Vote because you can.
We live in a country where we have a chance to let our voice be heard. In other countries, young people are fighting for this right. It's sad that we don't take advantage of this! If you don't vote, you may just wake up in a country where you can't anymore...and that's terrifying.
3. It's your responsibility.
Oh hey, you're 18 and an adult now, so why don't you act like one? As a citizen of this country it is your job to vote for the thing you want. How is this country supposed to run if the government doesn't know what the people want?
4. It shows you care.
We live in a country that is constantly changing. It's a time of drastic social changes and strong opinions that make it nearly impossible to come up with compromises in our government. When you go out and put in the effort to vote it shows you care not only about your country but about your future too. Government is important and the decisions they make can affect your life whether you realize it or not.
5. So you can complain with integrity.
You know what drives me crazy? When eligible voters don't vote and then COMPLAIN ABOUT GOVERNMENT DECISIONS AND WHO'S IN OFFICE. If you don't vote then you have no say so in things. Voting is your way of making your voice be heard. No vote = no voice (at least that's how it's set up to be). So if you want to complain about something, make sure you vote so you can do it with integrity.
Alright young people, there's five perfectly good reasons why you should go out and vote. Don't be a slacker; go out and make a difference.
