Even though midterm elections are over and even though this topic has been brought before, the discussion clearly needs to continue because as of the 2018 midterm elections, The United States of America does not have election day as a federal holiday. In other countries, if election days is not a national holiday, it takes place on a weekend.

From 1960 to 1996, only 48 percent of eligible voters actually voted in the election. In comparison, Australia had a turnout rate of 95 percent during that same time period. A huge difference in participation. I wonder what America would look like if that many people turned out to vote. What are we doing differently?

Well, Australia has compulsory voting, where you can either vote or pay a fine. Many of the other countries who rank above the US, like South Korea have instituted election day as a national holiday, making it easier for citizens to vote.

Oftentimes, people do not vote because of the many difficulties surrounding voting. Registration can be difficult in some states and can be a big hoop for some to jump through. For others, its transportation to the polls, as a surprising amount of states still does not have voting by mail. And sometimes, people need to be working while voting is taking place. A rather horrific reality.

Making election day a national holiday would be a step in the right direction. It would drastically reduce the number of people who have to go to work, making it more likely for them to go in and vote. That and increased focus on voting may help. The whole day would be set aside for voting, more so than it already is, and would thereby increase awareness and voter turn out.

Voting seems to take a backseat in this country and no matter your viewpoint, party, or political stance, the truth of the matter is that more people should be voting. The amount of people voting in comparison to our population is horrifying.

Election becoming a federal holiday would only do good for the American people and its government, and perhaps, we would actually hear the voices of American's who have been all too silent for too long.