When I turned 18-years-old, the first thing I thought about and the thing I was most excited for was being able to register to vote. Growing up, I was always interested in politics and government. Yes, I do have morals and common sense, and I still love politics.

During the 2008 election, the United States had the largest voter turnout since 1968, but four in 10 Americans that were eligible to vote stayed at home. Among the 35 countries in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the United States had the ninth-lowest voting rate. Although having the freedom to vote is a basic right of American citizens, why don't more people vote?

With this year being a huge election year, it is very important to get out and vote no matter if you support the candidates or not. On Election Day, the president is not the only thing on the ballot. State and local officials, senators, representatives, and state questions are also on the ballot. In Oklahoma, there are important state questions on the ballot, the most widely known being state question 777, or the “Right to Farm.” Now, I’m not trying to influence your decision, I am simply saying that voting your opinion will make our democracy more representative.

How do we as a nation expect our voices to be heard when we do not vote? Yes, you can have protests and plaster your opinion all over social media or constantly email your legislators, but voting is the only surefire way to ensure that your voice is heard.

In Oklahoma, the deadline to register to vote is October 14. Here is the link for registering. If you are in need of an absentee ballot, please follow the instructions here.

For Texas voters, register here. Or fill out this absentee ballot request and mail it to your county clerk office, found here. The deadline to register is October 11th for Texas voters!

Other states, search on google, “How to Vote” and choose your state and follow the instructions there.

Even if you're a Democrat in the heart of Texas or a Republican in blue Vermont, you should still hit the polls on November 8th and vote. Especially in this election, the importance of voting is immense. The future of our country honestly rests in the hands of the voters. So go out and vote, no matter your stance or political affiliation. The presidency isn't the only thing you're voting on.