By Aimee Monnett
Thursday and Friday, the 27 and 28 of Jan. Officials came to Brewer High School looking to help students ages 18 and older register to vote- but how important is this in actuality? American citizens gather every four years- usually on the first Tuesday of Nov. to cast their ballots for candidates they see fit- but their votes are not the direct determining factor of the victor in the election, so why is participation so critical?
There is no legal requirement for individuals to register and vote for candidates, but votes are an important factor of government, on both a local and national level.
To break things down, presidential candidates win the election via gaining the most points from states. States are given points in the Electoral college based on population. By way of illustration, Texas is densely populated and this is reflected in the amount of points awarded to the state- with a total of 34 electoral votes. The most voted for candidate in these regions is who is the victor of the state and its associated votes. The candidate with the most votes wins the election. So, while it is a roundabout way of doing things- primarily based on tradition, it is still a critical aspect of civil duties.
Furthermore, on a more local level Governors, Mayors, and congresspersons are all put in office via a direct election. Governors- the highest of the three mentioned- hold a lot of power over those in the state they run and are responsible for implementing state laws and operations of the state executive branch. Participating in and being aware of those who are enforcing policies is crucial. And likewise, a way to rid policies from office is to vote for candidates with a similar viewpoint so research and review is advised when casting a ballot.
There is also a fundamental need in democracy for voter turnout. The competitive nature of candidates running for office requires the parties to expose both prior records of incidents and plans for the future- policies, answers as to how they would solve societal issues in the United States, etc.- to public scrutiny. Candidates who don't fulfill future promises often don't make it to a second term. These elections not only provide crucial political education but responsiveness within democratic governments.
As the youngest generation, it is important to make ourselves aware of and heard on the political stage of the United States. It is the most accessible means of change any generation has, and as we learn and grow our own foundation of moral systems it will act to change the way things work- as long as we allow ourselves to use that voice. This principle in itself is enough logical foundation to make ourselves present in these activities as soon as we feel we are educated and able to do so.