Silhouette

Issue date: 11/2/06 Section: Opinion

Media Credit: Patrick Barb

When asked whom I was going to vote for in the upcoming elections, I automatically responded, "the democrats." I realized the hypocrisy of what I said and added that I'd research before I went to vote. I think voting only for the candidates who are affiliated with your party with is a terrible mistake. There can always be conservative democrats and liberal republicans so making a decision to vote for someone simply based on their party affiliation isn't always the best choice.

Before you can actually vote, you have to be registered. I registered within a month or so of my 18th birthday so I could participate in the next election. However, many young people aren't even registered to vote. Instead they have a mindset that their vote really doesn't matter or the election won't affect them. Every vote counts. But if you're going to vote, be actively engaged and research the candidates. After all, you're making yourself a better person just by making yourself aware.

Some people just don't care what happens, and if that is you then please stay home on Nov. 7. I would rather have my one vote counted, than have 12 votes cast against me by those who registered under the party their father registered as and voted without knowing what they were voting for.

While it's too late to register for the Nov. 7 election, go ahead and register now so your voice can be known next Election Day.

Don't let generalized stereotypes obscure your decision when you vote. Not all Republicans are conservative and not all Democrats are liberal. There may be people who have similar beliefs to you who are of a different party than you.

Don't let that hinder you from voting for them, their personal ideas and ethics are much more important than what party they belong to.

Get involved because every informed voice should be heard. Encourage your friends and family to do the same. Do research before voting, or before you register if you haven't yet. Voting for someone just because they have an "R" or a "D" by their name doesn't mean you are informed.

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