Why Should People Vote?

“American elections bore me,” said a Canadian friend of mine. “In Canada, we have a good selection of candidates. American elections are between Bert and Ernie.”

Although many American cite the similarity between two candidates and the lack of “a real choice” as reasons not to vote, this is not a reason not to participate in national elections and to waive one’s democratic right which many people around the world do not yet enjoy. Although many ask today “Why should people vote?”, a person should vote if only as a symbolic gesture. After all, if the two candidates are so similar, why not vote? What can you lose?

It is an often an exaggeration to say that two candidates are exactly alike. One need only follow the news to find differences in each candidates stated policies and party platforms. The correct question is not “Why should people vote,” but why don’t people educate themselves more thoroughly on what each candidate has to offer. There are plenty of media resources, and such research is not difficult. One need only think about how each candidate would act concerns issues that concern him or her the most.

Although much more goes into an election than policy. There are many aspects that are merely cosmetic including speeches written only to pay lip service to a certain cause, right down the brand of suit each candidate wears. Some get so upset by the superficiality of political campaigns that they might wonder “Why should people vote?” Although the more theatrical aspects might be as annoying to some as they are exciting to others, it is possible to look beyond the exterior and focus on the issue. When one asks “Why should people vote?” they should reflect on the plight of those live under oppressive regimes and are not able to vote.