Here’s Why I’m Voting in This Year’s Midterm Elections
Hi all! My name is Angelica. I'm a twenty something…
In your best Lil’ John voice, say it with me: Vote, vote, vote, everybody!
(Word of caution: You’ll probably have this verse stuck in your head all day now. You’re welcome.)
The message today is simple – Vote! No matter your political beliefs, your background, or what your friends or family have to say, etc. Voting is a right for which was valiantly fought and we should exercise that right. So many people would love to be able to vote and have a say in their government. And what better way to express what we believe in than through voting?
I voted for the first time in 2008. I felt like such an adult being able to vote in a Presidential election and then two years later I voted in the primary elections.
If we want our voices to be heard, we must vote.
Lyft and Uber are offering discounts to those who are in need of a ride to the polls. If you’re a Lyft fan, find out your local code through this link. Rather ride Uber? Just update the app to its latest version and use the promo code “VOTE2018” to get $10 off your ride. To get the most out of these deals, carpool and split the cost between friends. Want to reduce your carbon footprint? Use a Motivate bike and the code “BIKETOVOTE” for a free ride to the polls.
And remember, you can’t wear a candidates shirt or any other advertising while voting. It’s considered electioneering and states have various thresholds for it. So, even though you’re dying stride with Pride into Colorado’s election wearing a Jared Polis shirt or ready to proclaim your love for the numerous, diverse, female candidates (including Minneapolis’ Ilhan Omar – the first Somali-American legislator in the United States), keep your swag at home, or at least under your coat.
Something else to keep in mind: Regardless of the time, you cannot be turned away if you’re already waiting in line to vote. Even if the line is out the door and down the block (let’s hope we have that great of a turnout), polling locations are required to stay open until every last person has had a chance to exercise their 15th amendment right. In some areas, curbside voting is available for persons with disabilities. If this is a concern, call ahead to make sure you’ll be able to vote in your precinct.
If we want to make a change, we must vote. If we want to have people in office who we truly believe will create change, we must vote.
If there’s someone in office who you don’t think can do anymore, vote. If you think you’re being under-represented, vote. If you want equal pay, vote. If you want equal rights, vote. If you want ALL of our brothers and sisters around the country to have the exact same rights, vote. If you think the climate needs a shift in the right direction, vote. Did I mention you should GO VOTE!
I’ve always said you can’t bitch about what happens in the country if you don’t go vote. So go, run, walk, carpool, bring your friends, and make your voting location the place to see and be seen.