Voting is a fundamental right as an American, and the most basic means by which we participate in our government. By voting, you influence the process that determines who will represent us, our family, our neighbors in our communities, our state, and our country. Being that many disenfranchised groups have had to fight for the right to vote in our country, we must make it a point to honor their right for each election.
We live in a democracy, which means that citizens have a voice in the government. Our elected representatives make the laws and govern our commonwealth based upon the beliefs and values of the people.
The right to choose our global representatives is in our hands. Voter participation is essential to the maintenance of our democracy. A large voter turnout at the polls ensures that the interests of American citizens influence our public policy.
Choosing not to vote is surrendering your ability to make changes in our community.
The New American Movement has come up with the top 10 reasons to vote:
1) Because you CAN!
2) It’s your voice
3) It’s your civic duty
4) For those who fought and died for your right to vote
5) If you don’t vote, you lose your right to complain about government
6) It’s YOUR money
7) To protect your interests
8) Because others around the world cannot
9) Because you care about the next generation
10) Because you have HOPE
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, the role of voter ID continues to be a pivotal focus within state legislatures. As of April 29th, 2013, voter ID legislation is pending in 30 states; including new proposals in 12 states, proposals to expand existing voter ID laws in 7 states and other changes to current voter ID laws in 11 states. For further details, please visit the National Conference of State Legislatures website.
Such propositions directly affect those individuals who do not have a driver’s licenses, are not eligible for driver’s licenses or lack access to obtaining one. In the 10 states where restrictive legislation has passed, this directly hinders the voices of people with disabilities, the elderly, young voters, and low-income voters.
Considering that the political action committee, Protecting Our Vote, identified only 9 instances of voter impersonation during 2000-2007, it is evident that voter ID legislation produces wasteful spending on constrained state budgets. To make matters worse, the Brennan Center for Justice’s recent study on this issue found that 11 percent of voting-age citizens lack necessary photo ID. For these reasons, the New American Movement opposes any legislation that attempts to burden one’s right to participate in our democracy.