In several recent columns in this newspaper, the League of Women Voters has addressed the issue of poor voter turnout. Last month we invited readers to help us identify ways to encourage better voter engagement. Several of you took the time over the busy holiday season to respond.
Hele G., of Buckingham, noted that information about candidates and issues is disconnected and hard to understand. She would like to see “more sources of accurate, impartial information,” and perhaps monthly discussions, open to the public, discussing and debating local issues.
Edward T., of Hunterdon County, suggested that we remind people to vote with well-placed posters or memes such as:
No rain drop thinks it’s responsible for the flood...... Together we make the difference....Vote!
And Ilene S. of Holland, offered the following thoughts:
“I can only respond by sharing with you the reason why I vote and truly hope that it resonates. Simply, I vote because it is my choice. When you vote the choice is yours, when you do not, the choice is theirs.
Voting is a right and a privilege. Do you want to continue to live in a country with the freedom to vote? Do you want your children, grandchildren and the future generations to be able to live in a free world supported by the Constitution and Bill of Rights? Do you want to leave behind a legacy that supports democracy, law and order and the right to vote? Freedom is not a guarantee. If you believe that your one vote has no power, you are wrong. Individually and collectively, we can have our voices heard and make a difference.
Regardless of your party affiliation, in 2024 make a choice. Either vote and have your voice heard or you choose not to vote, and your voice is silenced by the opposition political party.
If the decision is overwhelming, make a list of three policies that you support and those you do not, and then make your best educated choice. Your vote is important. Please do not relinquish your rights. This is what democracy is all about, choice. No one should take away your right to vote. But they will if you choose not to vote.
The Constitution of the United States was created “of the people, by the people and for the people.”
As the people, we have the freedom and responsibility to vote for democracy. It is our choice.”
The League of Women Voters is dedicated to encouraging voter turnout. We provide voter information through our Voters Guide and online Vote411.org. Throughout the year we hold public meetings, sometimes by Zoom and sometimes in person, addressing important issues of our times. For example, on Thursday, Jan. 11 there is a program on Redistricting Reform called “Making Your Vote Count.” It will be recorded and viewed at https://www.youtube.com/@LWVBucksCounty/videos.
We thank those who took the time to respond to our question about voter participation. We hope to hear from more of you if you have suggestions for improving voter turnout.
Jean Weston is president of the League of Women Voters of Bucks County, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to providing voter education and services and advocating for issues. It envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate.
Join our readers whose generous donations are making it possible for you to read our news coverage. Help keep local journalism alive and our community strong. Donate today.
