“Government of the people, by the people and for the people,” Abraham Lincoln

These eloquent words spoken by our 16th President remind us that we have the power to decide who will represent us in the government, if we exercise our right to vote.  While citizens in many countries continue to fight for this critical right, we the people of the United States will be free to cast our votes this November. However with this great freedom comes great responsibility.

 

Many Californians believe that their votes don’t count, that one person can’t make a difference.  In reality what you need to know is that your vote is very important.  Your vote enables your voice to be heard, and with your vote you can help to make politicians accountable for the promises they’ve made.  Your vote sends a message that you believe in the issues that the candidate is supporting and if he/she is victorious you will be expecting them to make good on their pledge to undertake a particular issue, or make responsible change.

 

If you decide not to exercise your right to vote then you give up the right to make choices. You allow others to decide who will represent you, no matter what they believe. You will have to live with the politician’s stance on issues such as trade, taxes, education, health care, environment, and many other relevant issues that will inevitably affect you.