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Beyond the Ballot: The Power of One Vote


Beyond the Ballot: The Power of One Vote
by Matthew Edward Hayward on Thursday, August 19, 2010


Q. Does one vote really make a difference?
A. On its own, perhaps not. That's why I choose to amplify my vote through various means. We possess numerous avenues to extend our influence and generate more votes.

Q. Why should I get involved if the Electoral College ultimately elects the president?
A. Have you ever considered becoming an elector yourself?

Q. Why do we often find ourselves choosing between the lesser of two evils? Where are the good candidates?
A. Firstly, there's always the option for you to step up and run for office. Secondly, it's crucial to actively seek out and encourage potential candidates who embody the values and principles you believe in. If we don't scout and support viable candidates, we're left with power-hungry politicians prioritizing power over principles. There might be promising primary candidates, but their chances are slim without early and active support. By the time the general election rolls around, many candidates have been eliminated, and we're left choosing from the remaining few. If you genuinely care, get involved early.

Q. How can we counteract corporate influence, especially after the recent Supreme Court decision?
A. When was the last time you contributed to a campaign? In 2007, a presidential candidate held a massive fundraiser where the average donation was $50. This candidate raised over six million dollars, outpacing all his peers in the fourth quarter. If people are informed and active, we can collectively raise the funds to ensure our voices are heard.

Q. What can you do if you've lost your right to vote or are still in legal age?
A. Voting is just the tip of the iceberg if you're passionate about an issue or a candidate. Even those who are indifferent vote. If you genuinely care, you'll do more than just cast a vote; you'll create votes. Here's a brief list of actions I've taken to support the issues and candidates I believe in:

I've joined organizations.
I've established two nonprofits.
I write letters to the editor.
I've called radio talk shows and C-SPAN.
I go door-to-door.
I attend town hall meetings and ask questions.
I volunteer on campaigns.
I distribute information to everyone I encounter, including leaving tips at restaurants and coffee stands.
I hold up signs and banners.
I air documentaries on the local T.V. station.
I give lectures at the community college and use the classroom as a platform to influence others.
I display stickers and decals on my car, computer, and more.
I serve as an elected PCO, a role everyone should know.
I attended my caucus and became a delegate representing my area and, later, my county.
The real question is, when will people realize the power they hold, and when will they choose to get involved?"




Comments

  1. The democratic component of our Republic cannot be ignored. I would postulate that the individual has a choice: spend their time winning over neighbors & friends to proactive involvement or spend your spare time at a second and third job to pay the ever increasing tax and regulatory burden imposed on you because you are uninvolved. As Pericles said centuries ago "Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn't mean politics won't take an interest in you."

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