ELECTION SEASON - Part V

Most American voters are stupid, but you are different because you are reading this column, this page, and this paper. Unfortunately, everyone else seems to wait for someone to tell them what to do and how to vote, whether it’s by the constant barrage of political attack ads or the non-stop voices of Hannity, Limbaugh, Olbermann, and Maddow. With next Tuesday’s election rapidly approaching I assert the average person walking into the polling place knows nothing more about the candidates or the issues than they have seen on television.

My bold statement about stupidity comes from a personal reminder about the “real world” over the Biketoberfest weekend. Many find it surprising, but I do not have televisions; specifically I do not subscribe to cable or have an antenna to receive local stations. Curious about next week’s ballot I have sought out the proposed amendments and read through the legalese and worked to understand the issues. Regarding candidates I have diligently researched with disregard to party lines, and especially worked to understand judges, commissioners, and other non-affiliated nominees. Over the last four weeks I have worked to educate you regarding labels, parties, and local politics.

I believe the last election had one of the highest voter turnouts ever among young people minorities; captivated by a polished, elegant, intellectual man from Illinois. These same people then checked other boxes on their ballots, radically changing the political landscape. A friend of mine said, “you should not be allowed to vote unless you have skin in the game.” Although somewhat arrogant, the point drives home the fact that our free country allows freedom at the ballot box, even when the voter has no knowledge of the candidates or the issues.

In the final days leading to the election survey results will be reported as truth regarding how your friends and neighbors are thinking. Attack ads, and misleading advertising campaigns will be delivered at a furious pace. No matter what your party alignment and general feelings, I challenge you to find a sample ballot, study the names and prepare yourself to vote. You must take time to read the complicated proposed amendments as they will directly impact you for years to come. Remember two things: our government does not belong to Republicans and Democrats, but “We the People,” and millions of Americans have died for your right to vote next week, don’t waste it.