The 2016 Presidential election is my first opportunity to vote. Up until this year, I have always excitedly waited for the opportunity to vote. I make a point to stay educated on political issues as well as up to date on candidates. All of this being said as my first election is just a few weeks away I am politically apathetic.

About a year ago when all of the presidential candidates had declared they were running I was excited. Lots of new voices and a wide variety of political goals. As candidates, I favored began dropping out I was prepared to vote for someone with a vastly different political ideology. I wanted a president who wanted the best for our nation even if I didn't agree with all of their methods. I joked if the election ended up Donald Trump vs. Hillary Clinton that I didn't know what the heck I would do. And now less than a month from Election Day my absentee ballot sits on my desk unmarked.

I'm stunned that these are the choices we have as a nation. Two people who care more about their success than the people of this nation. How can I vote for candidates that will be harmful to minorities, women, the LGBTQ+ community, Muslims, and refugees? I love these people and I can't imagine playing part in electing a president that will hurt them. How can I vote for a third party candidate when I know ultimately that choice will just help whoever wins? How do I not give up hope on this nation? Who do I vote for?

My very first election and I'm apathetic. I'm frustrated these are the two choices we have. I am saddened that no matter who I choose to vote for people will be hurt. I pray the lesser of two evils will win and that our nation will survive to another election. I pray I one day I will once again be excited to vote.