While walking on Bascom, the Capitol often dominates your view. The Capitol is not just a beautiful facet to the Madison skyline. It represents so much more than that: it is a symbol for democracy and choice, and you are able to decide who governs there. It is important to recognize the significance of that building, and the officials inside of it, especially with an election approaching.
Those who walk within the walls of the Capitol work to shape our lives. They create, amend and decide which laws will dictate our present and decide our future. It is for this reason alone that it is essential to vote Nov. 4.
As an individual it is easy to look at an election and feel that it is not important because you are just one of the many. But, one person is all it takes to make a difference. While this does sound cliché, it is not wrong. When an election is close, every vote makes a difference. Because this election is extremely close in many races, your voice can make a tangible difference.
Consider the fact that you have the ability to voice your opinion on who should be in charge of making these laws. When sitting in class or at home, it is easy to lose sight of this because everyone in that room, everyone in the building, has the right to do this. This is not true of everyone in the world. The world is not full of democracies. There are even “democracies” that fail to provide valid elections. There are so many individuals in the world who will never have the opportunity to vote in their lifetime. They exist in an environment which they are forced to accept.
You can shape your world. You can make a decision which will have an impact.
Have you ever complained about a policy? Complained about how your paycheck has a huge chunk taken away from taxes? Complained about anything regarding laws? You probably have. And that is a very clear indication that you have an opinion on at least some aspect of politics. You should vote.
I am not saying you should run to the polls without knowing who the candidates are. I am not saying you should vote for one party entirely. You should look at the ballot ahead of time and read about what each candidate believes. Pick the individual who most aligns with how you think.
Voting strictly on a party line or voting just because is not enough. You need to know why you are voting for someone. But, you should vote.
Make an informed decision and make your voice heard. The Capitol is waiting for your decision. The person elected can and will have an impact on your future. Voting Tuesday means taking an active role in our political system, a role which our country has prided itself on and continues to pride itself on. Shape your world. Vote Tuesday.
Amy Hasenberg ([email protected]) is a senior majoring in political science with a certificate in African studies.
