Carol Fisher-Linn
“No vote, No Voice.” So, says aactnow.org. They go on to tell us what should be obvious … politicians listen to two things – money and votes. We are all aware of their attraction to money, no matter its source, but we tend to forget that they also have no choice but to listen to votes, or at least pay attention to stay in their lucrative and powerful offices. Our votes make sure they represent us and the things that are important to us. (And when they don’t you should let them know. Voting gives you that right.) Our failure to vote gives them the latitude to do what is best for them. Notice the words “our votes”. That includes you.
Here’s the deal, and it can’t be repeated enough. If you don’t vote, then the person who does speaks for you because you CHOSE NOT TO SHOW UP. Yes, some of our high-ranking officials may have been predestined for a life in politics by their educational background or family history. But some may have worked their way up the ranks from lower political positions like Town Clerk or Assessor, village or town board member, etc., who knew the right people in the right places and slowly started moving up. Next thing you know, they are serving in government, making laws that affect your life in ways you couldn’t imagine. (Think AOC or MTG who came out of nowhere and ended in the US House of Representatives.) Imagine this: someone you always paid your taxes to over the counter is now, instead, determining how those tax dollars will be spent. What if that person does not share your views on how taxes should be spent? If you don’t vote for someone who does, (and you know that by reading up on the candidates – really studying their platform) you had your chance. Remember, if you don’t vote, your neighbor will. Do you want them to speak for you? I certainly don’t.
You know voting might be grudgingly considered an obligation or, as many believe, “my vote doesn’t count”. It actually does! Truth be told, it is your privilege and your right. People have died for your right to vote. Sadly, still today, millions of Americans struggle to be treated fairly when it comes to voting. Don’t take voting lightly. In fact, voting rights may be an issue you will have the privilege to vote about. Will you let others speak for you? You know, those who don’t necessarily think everyone should have an equal playing field when it comes to voting, or housing, or health care, or guns or abortion. Yes, those people. And don’t kid yourself. They vote. If you stay home, they speak for you. Is that what you want?
Scary voting facts: According to the U.S. Census Bureau only 71 percent of eligible citizens are registered to vote. As of April 2021, voter turnout is highest among ages 65 to 74 at 76%; lowest was among those ages 18-24 at 51.4%. About 60% vote during presidential elections, only 40% during midterms yet these elections pave the way for those less experienced to move up – why it’s so important to study everything put out by candidates for ALL offices. America’s turnout rate is a result of demanding registration requirements and more elections. Many democratic governments automatically register citizens, whereas Americans carry the responsibility of registering themselves.
Both Cattaraugus and Chautauqua County citizens: There will be a special election on August 23. It contains TWO elections: A special election and a Republican primary. The first is to fill the remaining few months of District 23 Congressman Tom Reed’s term. It is open to ALL registered voters. Candidates are Democrat – Working Families: Max Dela Pia. Republican – Conservative: Joseph Sempolinski. What do you know about them? Still plenty of time to research.
The other is a Republican Primary to choose the Republican candidate for the November election, to serve a full term beginning in January. Candidates are Carl Paladino and Nick Langworthy. Of course, you must be a registered Republican to vote for this one.
Check your BOE for information about early voting days. And get out and VOTE!!!! Don’t complain if you don’t.