With this year’s elections really starting to get underway, it’s hard to look at a newspaper, turn on the television or even have a conversation without some mention of political goings-on.
At this point it’s even becoming impossible for me to look at just about any form of social networking – okay, primarily just Tumblr, which has become the only social network I need – without seeing quotes, pictures or animated GIFs of Barack Obama, Mitt Romney or others discussing those two.
It’s obvious that the upcoming presidential election is at the forefront of a lot of minds. But what about the other elections?
Obama and Romney aren’t the only politicians who will be anxiously awaiting election results come November. Dozens of local elections are going on for everything from county commissioner and prosecution to state Senate and House. Additionally, 2012 is an election year for U.S. Congress as well.
The presidential election is, no doubt, a supremely important one. But I think it’s also just as important to have a hand in our own local elections. These can often go unnoticed due to lack of funding and publicity but it’s as easy as searching “Idaho state Senate elections” (similar searchs for other legislative positions work just as well) to become informed.
In many cases, our state and local legislators have more influence over our freedoms than bigwigs like the president do. That’s why I feel it is necessary for everyone to become informed and involved in local elections just as they would in a big, exciting race like the presidential election.
Prior to this year’s election I’ve been pretty uninvolved in local politics and used the same excuse that many others have: I don’t have time to get involved, or I don’t even know where to get started.
These are both legitimate arguments but can easily be remedied through the internet. It’s possible to look up politicians, campaign platforms, election dates and more online. It’s also possible to register to vote or request an absentee ballot (useful for college transplants to the area) online as well.
Simply go to www.rockthevote.com and click on the red “Register to Vote” heading. This website also has information that can tell you how to check on your registration status.
To request an absentee ballot, visit www.idahovotes.gov and follow the “Voter Information & Registration” link.
With elections all over the television, radio and internet, odds are most of you probably don’t need me beating a dead horse and touting the benefits and importance of voting. For now I’ll put away the flog but don’t be surprised if I get back on that (dead) horse before November.
Nicole Blanchard is a junior majoring in Mass Communication.
