Are You Ready To Vote?

Many of us are anxiously counting down to Election Day — so much so that about 1/3 of us may actually vote prior to Tuesday, according to recent press reports. For those of us who have yet to cast our ballots, it's important to make sure we consider not only the presidential candidates but also any state and local contests on which we have the privilege to weigh in. 

I urge everyone to take a look at their sample ballots, familiarize themselves with all candidates and public questions or referenda so that they may make educated decisions. In the Internet era it's easier than ever to do this. You can, for example, check on the voting records of members of the US Congress here. Since most congressional incumbents run for re-election this should be a useful tool for many of us. You can also check your local newspapers and websites for their takes on and explanations of public questions and referenda. 

I also urge everyone to refrain from simply voting party lines and consider each of the candidates on their individual merits. I, for example, am likely to split my ticket by voting for Republicans on the county level because I believe that the local Democratic machine is wasteful and takes its power for granted. The importance of considering each race on its own is even more true on the municipal level, where the difference between, say, a Republican in Congress or the White House and a Republican on your town or city council can be huge. 

We still have three full days left. Let's use them wisely.