Over the past few weeks the presidential race has dominated our nation. Not a day goes by where I do not uncover new posts on Facebook that involve the upcoming presidential election. Without fail, one of my friends on Facebook always publishes an article, opinion, or meme regarding Hilary or Trump, which, do not misconstrue my opinion, is amazing. An informed, opinionated society supporting their representative and exercising their rights results in a thriving, healthy country. However, much to my dismay, I have discovered on Facebook and even Odyssey that plenty of people intend to boycott this election and not vote for anyone because they find both candidates inadequate. This decision to remain voiceless completely confounds me. Ultimately, how does refusing to vote resolve anything?
Even though choosing a president in the 2016 election resembles choosing which cancer to poison our country, I would still rather have that choice versus letting other people decide for me. Basically, by refusing to vote you refuse to have your voice heard. You silence yourself. Consequently, by staying quiet you choose not to stand for your political opinion and instead allow other people to choose your opinion for you. Even famous brands have jumped on the voting bandwagon. On YouTube Doritos put up a video entitled, "Introducing Doritos No Choice," which inquires if college students have registered to vote. Those who clicked on the option "no" then received a bag of fake aluminum Doritos and a card that concludes, "Because if you don't vote, someone else chooses for you."
Another reason a select group of citizens refuse to vote is due to a seemingly rigged electoral system. However, in what way does not voting solve corruption? By refusing to vote who will find a solution? In complete honesty, I do not know enough regarding this topic to truly discern whether the voting system in America has become corrupt, nevertheless, I just cannot understand how not voting would fix a corrupt system. Bringing the topic to light, talking to local representatives, and hosting peaceful protests do more than boycotting toll booths. Maybe I am naïve, but I truly believe that when you vote, your vote counts for something. And though your vote may only represent a single drop of water, it takes drops of water to fill the ocean.
Similarly, during election time I think Americans should realize the multitudes of freedoms we possess, especially voting. Some countries in this world do not allow ordinary citizens to have any say in government matters. Think about the complete lack of rights women in Middle Eastern countries can obtain. North Korea has completely brainwashed their citizens and governs with basically unlimited power. Yet in America we can not only speak our minds and publish our opinions, but also vote for political leaders, protest what we disagree with, pursue our dreams, acquire a formal education, and practice any religion we desire. Though our government has evident flaws, we cannot deny that our government grants us extensive opportunities other countries do not allow, and we should take advance of those opportunities, such as voting.
Just like plenty of Americans, I do not desire Hilary Clinton nor Donald Trump as president, and cannot imagine our country with either of them as leader. The man I supported for president quit running long ago. With that said, I still believe in voting. I believe that any choice outweighs no choice at all. Vote for someone based on their vice president or their political platform. Watch a debate and determine who you disliked the least. Vote for a third party candidate if you truly want them to win. Just do not silence yourself. Tony Blair once said, "Whatever the dangers of the action we take, the dangers of inaction are far, far greater," and that definitely applies this November 8th.
