Editorial writers in newspapers regularly urge readers to “get out and vote” when Election Day arrives. We typically emphasize that voting represents not just a right afforded to citizens in a democracy, but a responsibility. It serves as the most effective way for each individual to show both elected officials and fellow citizens that government’s direction matters to them. Furthermore, it provides the most straightforward tool available for shaping what course our government will follow. We customarily add that “this election is important,” blah, blah, blah, which might imply that certain elections lack importance. From our perspective, however, every election carries weight because each one offers voters meaningful choices. The paths our future takes depend heavily on whom we collectively elect to office. Consider this: if Al Gore had become President 10 years ago rather than George W. Bush, the Iraq War would never have occurred, sparing our nation from its devastating consequences. While that represents the most striking example from recent history demonstrating how a voting booth decision can profoundly affect so many people, this year’s state election will similarly shape the future of state government in significant ways. The leading gubernatorial candidates hold substantially different positions on numerous issues, and their decisions will influence policy for years ahead. Additionally, three ballot questions will produce deep and lasting impacts on how state and local government function. We examine Question 2 extensively below, but it bears noting that if Question 3 passes (and Question 1 to a lesser degree), state and local governments as currently structured would cease to exist—which might prove acceptable, yet no replacement system has been proposed to address what would follow. We did not set out to write the customary “get out and vote” editorial—but apparently we have—so we urge you to vote Tuesday.
Be sure to vote Tuesday – It’s the best way to influence our government
