In 2017, it is easy to sit back and watch the United States self-destruct. With a president in office who merely opposes Congress on any decision to be made, it is hard for anything to get done in this country. But, much of the problem is the lack of public opinion on problems that are relevant to many Americans. When no voice is heard, it is hard for our government to come together to represent the people’s opinion.
The elected officials that represent the American people in the House, Senate and in the White House are the people’s voice. Their purpose is to serve this country’s best interest. If you do not vote on Election Day for who you trust will sign bills that you believe in, how can this country be a democracy reliant on majority opinion?
Much of the problem might be that a vast majority of this country simply does not know what they stand for. Do they think we should lower or raise taxes? Should we deploy troops in the Middle East or not? Should we fund environmental protection programs? Should we fund Planned Parenthood? These questions are based purely on individual opinion. How can action ever be taken in favor of the majority of this country if only 55% of voting-age citizens voted in the most recent presidential election. A huge portion of this country is missing out on electing officials who support their opinions on matters that can be turned into bills and eventually laws.
So, what do we do about the population of American people who do not have an opinion on the tough questions the government makes decisions on? We need to enforce education on the news, on social issues, and on relevant problems. Middle schools and high schools need to enforce reading or watching the news so students find out about what is going on in the world. If we choose not to seek information for ourselves, how will we ever know what issues are at hand? Factual information must be presented beginning at a young age so Americans can be informed and form opinions for themselves. Taking a stance on issues will either make or break this country. Have an opinion, participate in elections and let the government represent the people as best they can.