Get Out And Vote!
– By Josh Warburton –
As we close in on another Election Day, I am reminded of all the things it takes for us to run a civilized society. Yes, I am most certainly going to encourage each and every one of you to vote this year. These elections are as consequential as any we have had. And I know we hear a version of that every cycle. Still, it grows increasingly important in a polarized society if we want a functional government that provides us with all the systems and infrastructure we rely upon. Please make sure the candidates you support, understand the importance of our institutions, including our election systems.
Our local elections, overseen by our county clerks’ offices, are done with extraordinary attention to detail and care. I would encourage anyone interested in seeing how it works to consider volunteering with your local Clerk’s office.
So much hearsay has been thrown around these past few years, accusing our election systems of potential irregularities, hacks, and even conspiracies to change election results. As a politico who has covered numerous elections and run for office twice, I can tell you that every member in the local clerks’ offices I have ever met are honest, data-driven individuals interested in serving the public. I would challenge anyone to prove me otherwise. We all must have confidence in our elections, but if you don’t, please consider taking the time to learn how our systems work…at our local Clerk’s offices.
But civic participation does not stop at the voting booth. Consider that every elected official represents the public at large and generally does their best to settle on reasonable compromises that serve their constituents. But the only way they can honestly know what reasonable compromise is, is to interact with the public… that’s you and me. I am often reminded of the squeaky wheel concept. If you and a constituency want to be sure your voice is heard by your local elected officials, get organized and politely contact them to share your perspective. Most are more than happy to listen to a voter’s point of view; it very often shapes where policy ends up.
Beyond that, stay involved in local politics year-round if you want to know what’s happening in your community and, frankly, how the sausage gets made. Attending city council or county commission meetings can be very boring sometimes, and individual agenda items are often less than relevant to you individually. Still, collectively the actions of our local councils and commissions are where the rubber meets the road. Frequently people wait to get involved until something is in their backyard, but by then, it can be too late.
And if you are the type of person who enjoys discussing local issues, is willing to put in the time to learn about existing laws and ordinances, and has an inclination toward leadership, I would encourage you to consider running for office in the future. It takes a lot of gumption, heart, and a thick skin, but if serving the public is something you’re interested in, take an active role in your community and run for office. Despite the current political climate, we always need honest and forthright individuals steering our local government for the greater good.
But if you do nothing else this cycle, please vote. It is critical to our democracy, and nothing is more American than the peaceful transfer of power, whether local or national. We can be proud as Americans for the incredible system we have and the awesome people who help make it work. Happy voting!
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