Helen Jarden
Editor-in-Chief
Our country has an incredibly difficult decision to face on Nov. 8. While this has been one of the most unique elections in American history, it is finally coming to an end.
Because it is such a hard decision to make, some have said that they would prefer not to vote. While it is understandable why this line of thinking is becoming more popular, there are a few reasons to reconsider.
The ballot contains more than just the presidential election. Along with picking the next President, Illinois voters will also have to vote on a U.S. Senator and U.S. Representative.
A President’s power is measured by how much of his party controls the Senate and House. Therefore, voters can make a huge difference in the amount of power a President has by voting on these other categories.
There’s more on the ballot than just people, too. The “Illinois Transportation Taxes and Fees Lockbox Amendment” is going to be on the ballot this November.
This amendment, if passed, will block lawmakers from using transportation funds for anything other than their stated purpose. Because it is important to do research before voting, check out saferoadsamendment.com to learn more about this amendment.
This amendment will have a huge impact on Illinois budget. If people skip voting in this election, they will also lose the chance to make a decision on how Illinois sections off its spending.
Considering the budget crisis the state is in, voting on this amendment is extremely important.
Another thing to consider is that, without the incentive of voting, people would be much less involved in what the candidates are saying. Fact checking has become extremely popular during the debates.
While this has been used as a tool the candidates use to prove each other wrong, it also has other benefits. Viewers actively interested in our government’s politics are being encouraged to be educated on national issues.
Each time a viewer fact checks something a candidate says, they are becoming more aware of the problems America is facing. It is only because American citizens can vote, and therefore have a choice, for someone who can promote change that they are so active in this process.
A vote is more than just a piece of paper with a little black circle filled in. That single vote literally helps determine the future of America. People complain that this is cliche to say, but it seriously is true. Whatever leader is chosen for the country, they can drastically change how things work in America.
The next four years with Donald Trump would be nothing like four years with Hillary Clinton, or Jill Stein, or even Gary Johnson. All of the candidates still in the running have drastically different plans and it’s up to the voters to figure out which one they want.
Even if the candidate’s plans are not 100 percent what a voter wants, it is still better to pick a candidate closest to their ideals rather than stand by idly.
If you are struggling to figure out which candidate is best for you, visit bit.ly/E2016quiz for an in-depth, unbiased quiz that can help you decide which candidate shares your views.
Also, become involved in the upcoming election today by checking if you are registered to vote at ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx.
