The world is fighting a pandemic, and its attention is fixated on the new coronavirus, but seniors, we cannot forget about the United States 2020 Presidential elections! Life may have slowed down, but it is still moving. There are only six months left for our citizens to unite, register, and vote! While we still have time, our team would like to bring our reader’s attention to the importance of voting. So, here is the big question, are you registered to vote?
Registering to vote is as essential as applying for a driver’s license. In the U.S., registering to vote is seen as a rite of passage. Considering how important voting is, it is so strange that so many people decide not to go out and vote. According to Pew Research, when it comes to voter turnout the United States drags behind most developed countries. Only 56% of the voting-age population participated in the 2016 Presidential election. Such low participation positioned the U.S. in 26th place out of 32 of the most exceptionally developed, democratic nations. The United States is the world’s preferred leading economic power, so it is a shame that voter turnout is so meager. Every vote represents a voice and grants the ability to each of our citizens to influence our country’s future. There are more than 253,768,092 U.S. citizens who can vote, so what happened to the other 111,657,960?
Sadly, thousands of Americans do not exercise their right to vote for many reasons like lacking interest, busy schedules, or everyday inconvenience. Whatever the reason may be, we must all exercise our right to vote. The right to vote is the first line of defense for our democracy. Each year our electoral system is becoming dominated by corporate interests and the wealthy. When we cast our ballots, we each wield the power to make a difference, both the rich and the poor. There are so many great reasons to vote, here are a few to help you get motivated for the upcoming elections:
- Not voting is surrendering your voice (your right to defend your thoughts and needs)
- You have a say on where your money goes (taxes)
- You influence your quality of life and future generations (public transportation, healthcare, raising the minimum wage)
- The power to change and help your community
- Each time an individual votes they create an opportunity for change
- Elected officials listen to the people who vote
- When you vote, you honor and protect our democracy
Seniors, every vote matters! Every single vote represents the voice of a real human being and their opinion. We are not numbers or statistics; it is our constitutional right to fight for our personal needs. When we exercise our right to vote, we create real and positive change as a community. The right to vote is one of our most hard-won and treasured American freedoms! Our votes cannot be ignored, especially the united voice of our elders.
The senior community has immense voting power. For almost 40 years, the participation of voters age 45 and older has dramatically surpassed that of younger Americans. If a candidate wants to do well during elections, they have to listen and appeal to our community. When we unite, we can influence health care reform and so much more. Do your part and spread the word, tell a friend, or email your family. Remember, there are many ways to vote, online, by mail, or in-person. Whichever way you choose to vote is up to you, make sure you are registered! The more of us participate, the stronger our nation will be. Let your voice be heard loud and clear, click here and register to vote.
To check your registration status and where to vote, click here.
Florida voter registration deadlines
- In-Person: 29 days before Election Day
- By Mail: Postmarked 29 days before Election Day
- Online: 29 days before Election Day
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