We all are so patriotic when it comes to waving the flag. We join in on activities for Veterans Day and Memorial Day. We give verbal support to our troops who are helping other countries become a democracy and gaining the opportunity to vote. We join or donate to organizations that support our military.
But one thing we don’t do enough is Vote.
In South City alone we have 27,764 registered voters.
Yet sadly in our last November election less than 5,300 registered voters here cast a ballot even though the process has been simplified with mail in ballots, early voting and election day voting polls. That is less than 20% of our registered voters. With a city population of 63,632 we have less than 10% actually voting to run things in our town or representing us in the county, state or nation.
What could have been accomplished if we had even 50% voter turn-out? What would happen if all eligible residents registered and actually cast a ballot? We all complain loud and clear about things we see not working locally, regionally, and nationally. Why are we not voting? What gives? Why the apathy?
Some of the replies I’ve heard include ‘My vote doesn’t count’, ‘They already know who/ what is going to win’, ‘I don’t understand the issues/ positions’, etc. Yet none of those excuses can be washed clean by the blood sacrificed by those before us who died to give us this right, this responsibility, of voting.
We have an election coming up June 3rd and sample ballots should have been received by registered voters last week. Mail in ballots go out this week. If you have not received a sample ballot you can CLICK HERE to see what is on this upcoming ballot as well as information to help you make an educated vote.
Everything South City is once again challenging our citizens to chose one issue, one position and study up on it, and make an intelligent vote. You do NOT need to vote on every issue, there is no right or wrong vote. There is only YOUR vote and it needs to be made. It is your personal decision which is private to you (unless you choose to share).
Often we may follow the lead of those who are endorsing issues or persons yet many times even those folks vote different than what they say publicly due to political reasons. So it is important that each and every one of us do some basic research and use some critical thinking in making our own decisions. There are many resources out there to help us filter through the rhetoric and campaign noise to help us.
How much time does it take for you to decide on a purchase, even as simple as food or clothing? Doesn’t it seem reasonable that equal time should be taken when it comes to marking your ballot?
Check through the sample ballot HERE and pick ONE or TWO issues that seem important to you and your community. Study up. And vote. We owe that much to those who are putting themselves out there as public servants and to those who have worked hard to create ballot issues.
Voting is not only your right. It is your responsibility.
And never forget it was won by the blood of those who came before us and those who continue to protect our country and this voting privilege.
Voting, now that is patriotic.
Haven’t registered to vote? Do so NOW by CLICKING HERE and more California voter information by CLICKING HERE
[…] rough estimate shows 5,100 SSF voters cast their ballot, out of the approximately 27,764 registered voters. To all whom participated in our democratic process, be it a candidate or campaigning for a […]
This article rings true. If we decide we want something changed, and are willing to speak up about it together, it will change.
When people are complacent then the powers that be will push the status quo or the agenda of private interests.
There is an election June 3rd, have you emailed any local elected officials with your thoughts on opening the SF Watershed?
Do you know who you are voting for? The article below demonstrates how powerful our voices really are.
But only when we speak!
Great analysis, Editor. Thank you…it is true that we all need to vote if we are going to change the direction of our country, or support it when we agree.
Amen. Voting isn’t just a right, it’s a responsibility.
I agree totally with the Editor. It is not only our right, but also our responsibility.
Very well said Editor.
Last November, I helped a friend in a city council race campaign in Burlingame(Ricardo Ortiz). He won by 9 votes! Every vote counts!
We all agree, we need not agree to our political choices, but I am certainly in agreement with this, we need to VOTE! It is our responsibility… Please do so…AGREE?
Well said Editor!