Dear Editor,
Democracy takes a lot of work to maintain. Every November we can chose whether to be active participants in our democracy by casting educated votes or a voiceless member of society. Every vote counts and to ignore a privilege that history shows was hard won is shameful.
There are no simple answers, the world is complex and all factors need to be considered when making these decisions. Candidates cannot be fairly judged by one specific issue or vote that was cast while in office. The big picture must be considered. One-issue voters often very passionate are not considering all the factors and very often only see the world through their own lens. The impact of a decision on others of a differing opinion becomes inconsequential.
Elected officials should be honest, inspiring, problem solvers and respect those with differing opinions. They must be up to the task of the job they want to win. Voting should not be a popularity contest. An elected official needs to spend time looking for realistic solutions not keep telling you what the problem is.
A voter ideally researches the candidates and considers the candidates ability to fulfill the legal job description.
What you do in the voting booth is your business. It is your right to privacy to exercise your choice on how to caste your vote. What goes on in your voting booth stays in the voting booth. No one can tell you HOW to vote. They should however encourage you to vote because it is your duty as a citizen. How you chose to discuss your action is your business.
Democracy takes work; an educated vote is empowering and patriotic.
Robin McClintock
Hendricks
