It doesn’t take a lot to become wary of politics. Perhaps 2008 was the first election you could participate in, and now you feel let down, betrayed, tricked or any number of different emotions.
A lot of first time voters took part in that election and will probably never vote again as a result.
If you’re one of those people, you should be angry. I wouldn’t hold that against you. You should direct your anger in an effort to bring about change.
Yes, you should vote.
I’ve heard different reasons for people not wanting to vote. Maybe some think politicians are all liars bent on deceiving the public so they can take on a job of high status.
The simple truth is politicians will likely let you down. It’s not always possible for them to achieve everything they’ve promised, and there are circumstances outside of their control that contribute to the eventual decisions they make.
A politician can only represent collective ideas, and people who agree on one thing don’t necessarily agree on others.
The whole purpose of voting for candidates is to find one who represents the majority of your ideals – one who you feel actively represents your frustrations and concerns.
Politicians are not perfect, so choose wisely.
Many people say they would rather not vote for the lesser of two evils, that our political system doesn’t provide enough variety with only two mainstream parties.
That’s true, and it’s a flaw of our political system, but there are several other issues that need our attention, like local government issues and state laws that directly effect the world we live in.
If you feel unsure about voting for two candidates, don’t vote for either. You’re not required to vote for what you don’t want to, but I sincerely doubt that there isn’t a single issue you can vote on.
We are living in highly divided times in this country.
When living in Southern California, it’s easy to forget that there are two very different men with very different ideas on where to take us as a country, and one of them is going to be the president for the next four years.
President Barack Obama and Republican candidate Gov. Mitt Romney have very different views on war, birth control, foreign policy, immigration, energy and the environment, gay rights, health care, social security and the direction of our economy.
With so many pertinent topics being discussed, we should be involved and go seek out information.
Where do you stand on these policies? Which candidate can best represent you?
Furthermore, there are propositions on the ballot concerning tax rates, human trafficking, the death penalty, auto insurance policy, education funding, genetically modified food rules and regulations, redistricting, clean energy and other state measures affecting freeways and job creation.
I guarantee you there are issues you will feel passionately about – issues that need your voice and your vote.
Do not be disillusioned by politics. Take an active role in creating and shaping the world that you live in.
You owe it to yourself to look into both candidates, look deeply at the propositions on the ballot and make an informed decision that will affect your life and your future.
Be a part of it, and vote this Nov. 6.
Dane Rivera is a senior creative writing major and a contributing writer for the Daily 49er.
