Though fewer people voted in 2012 than in the previous Presidential election, more than 120 million Americans still managed to cast a vote on Nov. 6 for the next President. For people whose lives had been seriously disrupted by the hurricane, voting was no small accomplishment. Nor was it easy for those (mostly in other states) who had to endure long lines or other obstacles at polling places. But people were intent on having their say no matter what.
That's encouraging--good news in an otherwise tough time.
Closer to home: Large numbers of students at NCC also took an interest in the election. In my classes, most people had definite opinions about the Presidential candidates. A few were cynical, insisting it didn't matter who was elected, but most seemed to view the election as important (which it clearly was).
And while the outcome of the election may not have pleased everyone, the fact that so many people cared enough to be pleased--or disappointed--was inspiring. Democracy depends upon our willingness to put ourselves and our views out there.
For new voters, Nov. 6 was the first in a series of important upcoming elections. There'll be a lot riding on future votes, both locally and nationally. So stay interested and informed. Don't listen to the naysayers who say your vote doesn't count. It does.
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