As I thought about writing this article, I racked my brain for ways to be graceful. This presidential campaign is anything but graceful, so how do I remain objective and respectful? Let me open by saying this: I do not know anything about politics. I hate politics, and when it really gets down to it, I have not been well-educated in that area. It is for this reason that I decided to comprise a set of tips for the uneducated American, such as myself.
1. Voting third-party is not a wasted vote.
Contrary to popular belief, voting third-party is not a waste of a vote. By voting for the "lesser of two evils," you are not voting for the candidate that best represents your beliefs, but rather the one that isn't terrible. You are essentially aiding in a bad candidate taking office. If you believe a third-party candidate is a better presidential candidate, vote for them. You are expressing to the political officials that the major candidates are not good enough for America and that this nation deserves someone better.
2. But in this election it is.
If even one or two percent of current third party voters decide to cast their ballot for either Trump or Clinton, it may decide the election.
3. Your vote does matter.
By voting, you are telling political officials what matters to you. If your candidate loses, it does not mean that your vote was wasted, but rather your vote is taken into account along with the rest of the population who felt the same way as you.
4. Hillary Clinton is not "just as bad" as Donald Trump.
I have heard many people put Trump and Hillary on the same level. They are by no means on the same level. They both have negative aspects, but Hillary is more qualified to be president of the United States. It is up to you to decide, will you vote for someone who is qualified and maybe does not hold your beliefs, or someone who is extraordinarily unqualified, yet holds some of the same beliefs as you?
5. Be objective.
Try not to look at the exaggerated news headlines and the behavior of the candidates, but rather what they stand for. Look at their qualifications. I understand that this seems like an odd concept; however, if you look at what they stand for you will know where the rest of the government will stand on the issues.
So yes, this presidential election will be a difficult one. Both major candidates have large flaws, and the third party does not have a large enough chance to sway the election. The main point is this, try not to worry about the country going to hell, but rather educate yourself so that you can vote intelligently and pray that regardless, the Lord would work supernaturally to protect our country and its citizens.
