Every vote does count.
Considering that even up to 1965, around when most of your parents were born, there were Americans who were prevented from voting, you'd think that every person would line up at 6am at the polling place to make sure their voice is heard.
Voter tampering and intimidation still occurs; it did not end in the 60's.
Sometimes, we Americans get complacent and assume the "other guy" will vote the way we want. Well, whenever there is a close election, they are proved wrong.
Primaries count, also, for whoever wins the primary will be on the final ballot in November. Someone who did not vote in the primary will step into the voting booth on Election Day and say, "how did these people get on the ballot? I don't like him/her!"
Well, those candidates got on the ballot because a small number of people came out to the primary election exercised their right to vote.
So, in case you didn't know, today's Election Day. If you're of age and registered, go out and exercise your precious right to vote. Exercise is good for you.
Walk into that booth thinking of the countries that restrict women — yes, in this day.
Think of countries where violence and intimidation prevents certain ethnicities — yes in this day; see Afghanistan and Iraq for the most recent examples.
Think of the parts of our very own country where there are still accusations of people being told lies to stop them from voting: if their utility bill was not paid, or the district was redrawn and the voting location moved across town, or the date was changed (!), or the machines don't work, or their picture will be taken when they enter/exit… lots of overt and covert shenanigans still occur in the U.S.
I'm forming a new motto: "Vote. If people want to prevent you from doing it, then it must be important. Vote."
And kids, register as soon as you turn 18. Pre-fill out your voter registration forms and mail them to arrive the day after your birthday. It's your right.
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