The Importance of Voting

Gwynith Hayden

Edited with Canva.

Juliana Hollihen, Reporter

During this midterm election season, it should be of no shock to American citizens that the importance to vote is more imperative than ever.

When the country was founded, the Founding Fathers found it reasonable to give the people the right to vote. They were undoubtedly brilliant men, unmistakably demonstrated by their artfully coherent concepts and writing.

Throughout their time analyzing ancient Greek and Roman government, they finalized which constitutional methods to implement for America to create the perfect nation. Ultimately, they established a republic society.

Take a look at the pledge of allegiance:

“I  pledge allegiance, to the flag, of the United States of America
And to the republic, for which it stands, one nation under God
Indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

The word ‘republic’ means “a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch.”

It is clear that American citizens have been given the right to vote, but why is it important? Some may question the significance of voting and wonder why they ought to take advantage of their constitutional right.

Concisely put, one should vote because of their future.  To vote enhances one’s chance of receiving what they wish from their government.

Whether it be protection, or the distribution of tax dollars, the future of society is directed towards the people’s desires or rather, their vote.

Voting indeed does make a difference. Those who do not vote are allowing others to destine their future without any opposition.

Samuel Adams emphasized the dignity in voting on 1768 to the Boston Gazette, “Let each citizen remember at the moment he is offering his vote…that he is executing one of the most solemn trusts in human society for which he is accountable to God and his country.”

It should also be noted that denying one’s self the opportunity to vote can be hypocritical if the individual then complains about the results of the election and the candidate’s decision.

Abraham Lincoln worded it humorously, saying, “Elections belong to the people. It’s their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the people and burn their behinds, then they will have to sit on their blisters.”

Furthermore, it is not to be overlooked that people have fought for the right to vote and that in itself should be a justifiable reason to vote.

Out of respect for the fallen, the simple act of ensuring that America is in the right hands is insignificant in comparison to their sacrifice.

Voting is a gift, and as Americans we are blessed to call it our right, for America was founded on the belief that citizens should have a voice.

Not every country has the freedom to vote, thus every American who can vote should take the opportunity to enjoy their freedom.

The only way for America to improve is for the people to take their future into their own hands and have a voice in our country’s government.