The Top Ten Reasons to Vote

Voter participation in Baltimore City, and much of America, has reached an all-time low. More than ever, Americans are disenfranchised by their frustration with the political system. Americans are not apathetic; the American spirit inherently nurtures strong political conviction. Americans care deeply about myriad issues. Yet low voter turnout predominates on election day.

Perhaps the American voter could benefit from a reminder of why s/he should cast a ballot.

Here are the top ten reasons why you should exercise your right vote:
10. If you have a problem and require a politician’s assistance, if you wish to have politicians knock on your door and ask you your opinion, if you wish to engage in a conversation with your leaders, if you are at all frustrated by government, if you think we can do better, then have your name show up on voter registration databases.
9. Voting is simple and accommodating of your schedule and special needs- there is early voting, transportation to polling stations, and assistance at the polling stations by election judges.
8. Your voice is unique and deserves to be heard.
7. Today this is your community and the policies and casework support of your elected officials affect your life today, regardless of where you may or may not reside during a subsequent election cycle.
6. Voting rewards or disciplines incumbents for their choices on tough decisions.
5.  Voting holds politicians accountable to a greater proportion of the electorate.
4. Voting reduces the influence of special interests.
3. Voting enriches the sway and dynamics of your demographic’s voting block.
2. Vote because you have the unique right to participate in the democratic processes that will shape your community’s future and that this right has been won through the sacrifices of so many after having been denied to so many more for so long.
1. Voting is your civic duty as an American; claim the mantle of your citizenship and rise to the honor.