The franchise might be the single greatest part of Western Democracy. Sovereign, the right to vote is the right to annually overthrow your government through legal means, and to bring about change in your society through the exchange of ideals and plans.
Okay, enough with the romantic PoliSci 101 bullshit. You have very few things required of you as an individual citizen. One of those things is the obligation to vote. I don’t care if you vote an empty ballot, spoil your ballot on purpose, or write in Mickey Mouse, but I care that you get up on Election Day, put on some pants, and go pull the lever, color the bubble, or tap the touch-screen, because this stuff matters.
Turnout rates across the area are certainly nowhere near where they should be. But, between early voting, absentee balloting, and 13-hour poll days on Election Day, you’re really out of excuses for not voting.
Not sure if you’re registered? Know you’re not registered and need a quick guide or even an online form to get you started? The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments has a gorgeous new site to help you get registered, as well as let you check your registration, get the skinny on early or absentee voting, and help you exercise your franchise.
Vote. It’s important.
Bonus Points if you volunteer in your community to help administer the elections. Leave me a comment with your jurisdiction, and I’ll get you the information on how to become a pollworker. It’s usually paid, it’s always fun, and you’re fostering democracy in your own community. How sweet is that?