In the 2012 election, only 57% of Americans voted. That means about 93 million people basically shrugged their shoulders and sat on the sideline. This apathy ranks us 26th in voter turnout, behind countries like Ireland, Israel and Slovenia. What’s worse is our turnout for Congressional elections, which is usually around 40%.
40%!
Time for a short civics lesson.
The fact is, Congress is in charge of really shaping our country and our lives because they are in charge of drafting legislation. We cannot neglect the Congressional Elections!
During 2013, Congress passed only 65 laws, many of them doing the “easy” stuff like naming bridges and creating commemorative coins. Talk about getting paid to do nothing! It’s not the sheer number of laws that is disappointing, after all more laws doesn’t automatically equal better government; it is the lack of willpower to do anything difficult, a lack of bravery.
When compared to the past, the Boston Globe states the 2013 Congress, “will almost certainly go down as the least productive crop of legislators in modern history.”
CNN agrees.
Protect the River and make many more memories with the family.
We are obliged by our duty as citizens to communicate to Congress that their political posturing and overall poor work ethic is unacceptable. Part of the problem is that, “Congress is now more polarized than at any time since the end of Reconstruction” after the Civil War. Knowing this, it is on us, the American people, to nominate and vote for more measured people, folks who can listen to different opinions on issues, make up their own mind and play nice with others.
So that’s the “why to vote”;
now comes the “how to vote.”
Registering to vote has never been easier!
For web savvy folks, this handy map allows you to click on your state and gives you step by step instructions, since there are some differences in state voting laws. There are also several public places you may be able to register to vote such as election offices and the department of motor vehicles. If you hate standing in line on voting day, find out if your state allows you to cast your vote early or mail it in. One important to note is almost all states require you to register 15-30 days before an election, so don’t hesitate, October and Congressional elections are right around the corner.
Annette Anderson
1 Mississippi Outreach Coordinator