This election day marks the first presidential election that many of us students can participate in. For some, it may be a long-awaited and exciting milestone. For others, it might be intimidating and overwhelming.
Either way, it is no small matter.
Voting should not be taken for granted. It’s an important right that we must take advantage of.
We urge our fellow Lopers to cast their ballots.
Our elected leaders are given a lot of power and responsibilities. They make the decisions for what the future of our communities, state and country will look like. In turn, it is our responsibility as citizens to do our part. That starts with voting.
The mindset of “I’d rather just not vote at all” is not reasonable. Many people who do not want to vote will still share their strong opinions. We should have opinions because the election’s outcome will affect each of us. But in turn, they should be advocating for themselves and what they wish to see in one of the biggest ways possible – voting.
One can’t have an opinion about something and call for change if they’re not going to do anything about it.
Non-voters are simply letting whatever happens happen. Our government is designed so we can participate and have a say, not shy away.
The ballot includes a lot more than just the presidential election. There are other federal, state and local level items that are important to vote on as well. Each individual’s vote matters, especially at the local level. Our vote dramatically impacts what is happening in our communities, not just on the national level.
In the grand scheme of things, one person’s vote might seem insignificant, but everyone’s vote can make a difference. This is even more true for Nebraska since our electoral votes are split. The popular vote gets two electoral votes and each of the three congressional districts gets one electoral vote.
We must not take the future of our communities, state and nation lightly. Research ahead of time, know what’s on the ballot and have a plan ahead of voting.
There have been a few opportunities on campus to get to know Kearney’s candidates. Last week the American Democracy Project hosted a forum featuring candidates for the upcoming local elections. The group is also hosting a voter information day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Wednesday for students to get informed on voter registration and early ballet requests. Members will be tabling in Copeland Hall, the Nebraskan Student Union atrium, Discovery Hall, the College of Education, the Health and Sports Center and by Cope Fountain.
We encourage Lopers to take advantage of this opportunity. The more informed an individual is going into election day, the better.
Nebraskans can request a mail-in ballot or vote in person at a local election office. An ID is required, and UNK student ID cards are acceptable. Kearney’s polling places can be found at buffalocounty.ne.gov/polling-places.
So come election day on Nov. 5, we encourage Lopers to cast their ballots. Every voice and vote matters.
