As the countdown to the midterm election nears, I am compelled to make a plea for every registered voter to vote between now and November 3rd, 2026.
If I had a nickel for every time I've been told I don't care about politics, my vote doesn't count, or it doesn't matter because nothing changes anyway, I'd be independently wealthy right now, and no, that is not an exaggeration.
Truthfully, I understand that feeling, especially the latter. I've been a voter for 44 years and have voted in just about every election. And honestly, since I've been a voter I've noticed that the political party pendulum swings back and forth every four to eight years at the national level without a lot of fanfare, so even I've wondered if it really matters.
However, what has been happening at the federal level over the last two years has been significant, and we need to decide if we want it to continue. I don't know anyone who hasn't been affected by it. I understand the exorbitantly wealthy have prospered under Trump's leadership, but I know of no one else who can say life is better for them today. Unfortunately, I do know a lot of people who say it isn't, myself included.
This is not an election for President, but as Donald Trump has said, we must vote as if his name is on the ballot. We must look at the voting record of each incumbent and see if they voted along party lines, or for what was best for their constituents. If they are new to the political arena, find out what they stand for other than being for or against Trump. Ask yourselves if their stand on issues is going to benefit you, your community, state or country. Then vote accordingly.
It is time to put party politics behind us. It is vital that we don't vote for candidates simply because of their party affiliation because, at a minimum, this election will likely determine how the next two years unfold. So take a little extra time and go to the candidates’ websites and read about what is important to them. Ask someone you trust how he or she feels about the candidates. Reach out to the candidates directly and ask them questions about what is important to you, or go to an event where they are speaking!
The bottom line is your vote matters so get ready to vote on November 3rd!! Look at your sample ballot at: myvoteinfo.voteks.org. Learn about the candidates asking for your vote. Read about the Kansas Citizen Voting amendment on the ballot. Read the pros and cons. Personally, I am voting no. If you have a school bond or other local issue on your ballot, check into it. Next, make a plan to vote. Then do the most important act you can do as an American citizen - exercise your right to vote by November 3rd!
Lorie Wood
Dresden, KS