“This administration is going to be cussed and discussed for years to come.” – Harry S. Truman
Tomorrow is Election Day. It is finally here. After months of primaries, debates, and impassioned rhetoric, tomorrow is the day when America pauses at the crossroads and decides which path to follow. We won’t try to sway you for one candidate or another today – the country has spoken of little else for quite some time now. Many of you voted early, more of you than in any election in history, but we will give one last plea for those of you who haven’t to cast your ballot tomorrow.
“Decisions are made by those who show up.” – Aaron Sorkin, The West Wing
In our political process, this constitutional federal republic, ultimate power lies with the people and their ability to elect local, state, and federal representatives and task them with leading our country. This is the most important duty of every American. This Great Experiment only works when the people make their voices heard and choose the men and women they feel will safely shape our future. Those who choose not to vote, whether because they don’t feel their voice is important or they choose to abstain in protest over a choice they would prefer was not before them, forfeit their say in that future. The time for complaints and concerns is not once those who showed up have made the decision. The time is tomorrow.
“Elections belong to the people. It’s their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the people and burn their behinds, then they will have to sit on their blisters.” – Abraham Lincoln
The United States is a big place and we have room for many different viewpoints. We are a country filled with passionate people and reasoned debate is healthy for us. It helps us shape who we are and who we want to be. No matter what your personal political philosophy, in this country, you have the right to put your vision of our future forward and have it discussed and considered. The election of 2016 is a pivotal election. This year, we have discovered that the country is balanced on a tipping point. Whichever side of the scale you favor, tomorrow is the day to throw your weight behind whatever future you believe in. After tomorrow, the die will be cast and you won’t have another opportunity to lend your voice to this decision. Every election is important, but some come at more crucial points in history than others. 2016 is one of those years. Tomorrow the country will decide who we want to be. Make sure that you show up to be part of that decision.
“You can pretend to care, but you can’t pretend to show up.” – George L. Bell, Civic Leader
