Here we are again, gearing up for yet another presidential election. Didn't we just do this? I mean, we are still in the second quarter of 2010! Before you know it, your fellow countrymen will start wearing red, white, and blue whenever possible. They will strike up conversations in line at Publix about Donald Trump and Sarah Palin. Scenery changes to star-spangled elephants and donkeys. All over the country.
 |
| The views expressed in this sign are not necessarily those of the blogger. |
And people gear up to vote. This is their big chance to "change the wrong back to right," or "decide on the fate of my country." November 2012 is the one opportunity you will have to voice your opinions, so you better make it count! Right? WRONG.
Yes, the electoral process is a huge part of the democracy that created our nation. No, Election Day is not your only chance to have a say in the next four years of policy-making and budget grappling! I know I have touched on this subject before, but I must make it clear to you. It is our civic duty, as U.S. citizens, to let our elected officials know what we think!
What happens if we don't? People report to the polls on a beautiful Tuesday morning, receive their ballot, and fill it out according to their favorite candidates. They leave, and proudly wear an "I Voted" sticker for the rest of the day. In January, a new (or incumbent) President takes office, and begins to do his (or her) job, the best they know how. Around March, the complaints begin. "It's been two months, and President So-and-So has yet to legalize marijuana, I can't believe I voted for him!!" or any number of oddities I've heard right after a politician takes office. And then the revolutionaries form new political movements determined to overthrow a particular party/politician. And people swear to never vote for that political party again. Congress changes majority party, and can't do something so seemingly simple as compromise. This election-only type registered voter contributes to complete chaos in our political system and doesn't even know it!
So how do we avoid this turmoil? Pay attention to the issues at hand. Check your Congressman's website every once in a while. Get involved in a community organization working for the better good of the people. Sign a petition. Call your Senator's office. Strike up conversations at community events to help others become aware of an issue at hand (even if they don't take the same stance as you).
Let's pledge to be part of a more aware, more active United States! Let's hold our Congressmen accountable for their votes!
