As American citizens, we the people are granted the right to vote in presidential elections. Hundreds of millennial youth waited in anticipation for this election year, the year that they could exercise this right for the first time. Many have flocked into meeting rooms together to watch debates and discuss political issues with their peers.
This was a time of great discovery for the upcoming voters as they attempted to discern between conservative and progressive views to align themselves with. I witnessed this young generation of voters be enthralled with politics toward the beginning of the race; I witnessed them take pride in their country and their new responsibilities.
However, I have since seen that pride and excitement be traded for confusion and embarrassment. Long gone are the talks of politics and the upkeep of debate watching and campaign endorsing. Young voters have given up, even taking to social media to exclaim their dissatisfaction with the results of the primary elections.
Most recently, social media exploded with disdain as campaign suspensions of Ted Cruz and John Kasich were announced and Donald Trump became the presumed Republican nominee. For many Republicans and Christians, this presumption led to tension and distress.
"I would rather not vote if my only options are Donald or Hillary."
Not voting has become the new form of voting or taking a political stand this campaign season. Many have urged young voters, though, to pick the lesser of two evils.
There is no lesser of two evils. In fact, biblical text urges us to not only steer ourselves away from evil people but warns us not to try to discern which evil is greater. With this voting season, do not choose the lesser of two evils.
This does not mean don't vote. Take advantage of the right our country gave us to have our voices heard and write in a vote! Thoroughly research the remaining candidates or even the candidates who have suspended their campaigns.
Do what the people of our country have done for years—fight for what you believe in and who you believe in. However, do not fight in a way that brings others discomfort but in a way that shows every voice and opinion matters.
This election is far from over. We as voters do not have to settle. We are in a time where we so desperately need a leader to govern us in a productive and healthy manner. Research all possibilities. Write in a vote. Make your voice heard. However, do not attempt to pick the lesser of two evils for there are no levels of evil.
