Why Vote?

Voting is more than a right. It is the duty of every American citizen to vote. You will find the reference to that duty in the second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence, where the Founders said, very clearly, "when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security." If peaceful voting is unsuccessful, less peaceful means may be required.

It does more than elect officials into office. It can do more than speak in favor of something. It can also speak against something.

When you cast your vote, you say to the world, "this is my choice". If your choice is not on the ballot, it then becomes your duty to recruit someone who represents your choice, or, if practical, become a candidate.

Participating in the election process is an investment in your future. You may not always get what you want from the election. If you don't, then you can do something about it. Not participating is not part of being an American. If you don't care about the evil the government does to you, that is your personal choice. On the other hand, you cannot escape responsibility for the evil the government does to others.

You can start an initiative petition or lobby the legislature. You can try many different things, but they are usually limited to people who voted in the last general election.

Voting is essential for participation in the political process that shapes our lives. Not voting is a betrayal of the gifts of the Founders.

Voting also makes you eligible for Jury Duty. You might get the opportunity to use your right of Jury Nullification. Especially if you know how and when to keep your mouth shut.

We have to consider the intentions of the founders of this nation for our generation. The founders intended to establish a government of the People. This means that We, The People, are in charge. That we have a duty to ourselves and posterity to vote our conscience. It is much more than a privilege. It is a sacred duty.

When we relinquish our responsibilities and duties to vote and allow others to make choices for us, we exchange our legacy from the founders for slavery.

Voting is the tool provided to every citizen to ensure the mechanics of government operate in accordance to the will of the people. Morally speaking, voting is a duty of citizenship. Why shouldn't you be condemned for the sins of the government if you did not vote against them?

Links of interest:

PBS - P.O.V. special on voting
Insure Democracy - Why Vote
New Voters Project - Why Vote?

For Kids
Channel One - Why Vote quiz
Why Should You Rock The Boat?