President’s Day: Remembering our Duty
President’s Day was initially George Washington’s birthday, meant to honor the birth of our government and the first great (though reluctant) president we had. Since then, it has become a federal holiday celebrated on the third Monday of February. It honors the United States’ leaders and their contributions to shaping its history. Rather than review the history of the holiday, I wanted to talk about how President’s Day can remind us of the importance of exercising one's right to vote and taking part in the democratic process. As many people are aware, the presidential primaries are taking place as of this writing. This serves as a chance for citizens to make their voices heard and choose candidates they believe will best serve as president. It is crucial that voters take part in these primary elections to ensure they have a say in the direction of the country.
The Presidential Primaries Matter
The presidential primaries are a critical step in the electoral process, allowing voters to select their preferred candidate for the general election. These primaries give Americans a chance to evaluate each hopeful's policies, character, and leadership abilities before deciding on their choice for the presidency. I find it shocking how many people are unaware of what their preferred candidate's stances are. In fact, I’ve known many people who say they simply vote for the most popular candidate. By taking part in the primaries, citizens can influence which candidates move forward to the general election and ultimately become the leader of the free world. I don’t believe it should ever be a popularity contest, but a vetting of what candidate has your best interests at heart. Voting in the primaries is essential to ensure that one's values and beliefs are represented in the government.
Every Vote Counts
Each vote matters, regardless of the state or district. Even in states that are predominantly Republican or Democratic, throwing support behind who you honestly believe in can show others they are not alone in their beliefs. The more people who participate, the more representative the government will be of the population's diverse views. By voting in the primaries, individuals contribute to shaping a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities. It is crucial to exercise this right to have a say in the direction of the nation and ensure that leaders prioritize the needs of all citizens.
Avoiding Complacency is Key
It's easy to become complacent about politics, especially with how many issues each candidate covers. It can be daunting to research. But there is a plethora of tools online that can make comparing candidates much easier (and less time consuming). However, it’s not just national level voting that matters. Though they don’t have the coverage and fanfare of presidential elections, local and state-level elections have the most immediate impacts on daily life. Primaries offer an opportunity to address local concerns and shape policies that affect communities directly. Voting in these primaries ensures that citizens can influence decisions about education, healthcare, infrastructure, and other essential issues. By taking part, individuals ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met.
In conclusion, President's Day can serve as a reminder of the importance of exercising one's right to vote and engaging in the democratic process. Participating in the upcoming presidential primaries and elections is crucial for shaping the future of the country for the better. Every vote matters, regardless of the state or district, so go cast your ballot and make your voice heard! By doing so, we can create a more just and equitable society for all Americans.
Voting Resources (Unaffiliated)