Let's be honest, this is one of the most unique elections in the history of the United States of America. One candidate is the first female nominee in our nation's history, while the other is a businessman with no prior political experience. For many college students, this is the first Presidential election in which they have the privilege to vote. There is currently a huge push in our country to not only register to vote, but to exercise your right and actually vote by November 8th. Perhaps I've only noticed this push in advertising because I'm older now and am regularly exposed to politics, but I really think that the media is actively advocating for voter registration and action. Even Snapchat figured out a way to have users (obviously, 18 years of age or older) register via the app. While registering to vote is critical, the only way registering is of value is if you actually vote.
That being said, I am so, so tired of millennials deciding that it is better not to vote because they feel each candidate is inadequate. Why on earth do some people believe that not voting is going to solve the problem? In my personal opinion, not voting is almost as bad as voting for a third party candidate. It is the unfortunate reality in this country that the one of the two major parties will produce the next President of our country. Third party candidates simply aren't going to win the election, whether we like it or not. If you want to know more about why third party candidates, check out this article by my fellow content creator, Emma Venetis: Please Don't Vote For A Third Party Candidate
As citizens of the United States, we are all privileged with the right to vote. We have the ability to change our government. While you might have different political views than the next person, it is vital that all Americans, especially newly eligible voters, vote. Instead of sitting back and allowing the rest of our country to decide the next President, use your voice. If you so choose that you simply cannot vote in this election, then I beg you: please be quiet. Do not complain about the outcome of the election. Do not complain about voters voicing their opinions. And most importantly, do not ever not vote, ever again.Other country's citizens are not as privileged as we are. We have the ability to speak our minds, use our voices, and advocate for what we hold important. While some people may think that posting their ideas to Facebook is enough that is not the truth. Sure, it's important to share our thoughts and maybe inspire others, but the only way to actively change something is to vote. If you need to register, follow this link: Voter Registration. If you need voting assistance, an absentee ballot, or need to find your local polling station, follow this link: Federal Voting Assistance Program. It is your duty as a U.S. citizen to vote. Be informed, be proactive, and vote on (or by) November 8th.
