A High-Tech-Plus: Here’s why you should Vote!

Voting is a powerful way for individuals to shape the policies and direction of their communities, states, and country. Here are several compelling reasons why everyone should participate, no matter who they vote for:

• Exercise Your Right: Voting is a fundamental democratic right. Exercising this right honors those who fought for it and strengthens democratic systems by ensuring diverse voices are heard.
• Impact Policies That Affect You: Elected officials make decisions on issues that directly impact daily life—healthcare, education, infrastructure, taxes, and public safety. Voting is a way to have a say in these decisions.
• Promote Accountability: Voting holds leaders accountable. When more people vote, it sends a message that citizens are watching and expecting results, which can influence elected officials to act in the public’s interest.
• Representation Matters: In many cases, non-voters are younger, less affluent, and more racially diverse. This means policies might reflect the views of only a subset of the population. Voting helps ensure broader representation in government.
• Influence Local Decisions: Local elections impact schools, law enforcement, community programs, and zoning laws. Your vote can have an immediate effect on your local community’s quality of life.
• Protect Your Future Rights: Many policies on the ballot impact civil rights, environmental protections, and other long-term issues. Voting is a step toward safeguarding these rights for future generations.
• Set an Example: When you vote, it encourages others in your family, friend circle, and community to do the same, building a culture of civic participation.

Voting is more than just choosing a candidate; it’s about choosing the direction of your community and making sure every individual has a voice in that process.

This year, it’s essential to vote based on policies, not on likability or personality. This election is not, and should not be, about popularity or star power—it’s about choosing the best person to lead our country. The outcome will shape our nation’s direction for the next 4 to 8 years. Below are some of the key issues to consider, along with questions that may help you evaluate which candidate could do the best job in these areas. Be honest with yourself as you reflect on each issue facing our country.

• The Economy and Inflation: Costs are high on everyday essentials, from food to gas to healthcare to vehicles. Are you better off today than you were 4 years ago?
• Abortion: Should it be regulated federally or at the state level?
• Border Security: Are you satisfied with the current handling of the border, including the impacts of immigration on the economy?
• Voting Rights: Should non-citizens be allowed to vote in our country?
• Jobs and Wages: Should overtime pay be taxed?
• Tax Relief: Should there be new tax cuts to support the middle class?
• Second Amendment: Do you support the right of the people to keep and bear arms as stated in the Second Amendment?
• Healthcare: What changes are needed to improve healthcare for you and your family?
• Reproductive Rights: How should reproductive rights be protected or regulated?
• Foreign Policy: What priorities should shape the U.S. role on the global stage?
• Strength to the rest of the world: We need to end wars and maintain our country as a strong leader among the countries in our world. We appear as a weak nation now, and that must change.

Be Sure you vote and get your friends and family to vote. Make sure your voice is heard, and your vote is counted!