Notebook: Voters will decide
EDITORIAL MUG: Larry Anderson
To me voting is a commitment. It speaks to citizenship, responsibility and purpose. It is an exercise in fundamental democracy, and through it we have a say in who governs us. Voting should not be taken lightly or for granted.
Voters determine the future. The choices we make may be on the nose or become a disappointment. It’s a gamble for citizens because the future and destiny are unknown, but that doesn’t mean one should toss a dart and hope for the best.
Much comes into play before casting: political compunction, of course, but also background, education, ethical and moral tendencies, pressing issues, and grave concerns. Any true citizen can vote, but it is a test of civic determination to get it right. We must do the best we can with the information we have. If we do that, then we get to complain about outcome because we have skin in the game.
If one chooses not to vote then that individual should be silent about how things work out. I don’t like to hear complaints concerning the country’s direction from anyone who couldn’t take time to mark a ballot. Voting sends the message you care about your country and what goes on in it. Not voting demonstrates indifference to outcome.
We do have the option of voting on whatever basis we want. Maybe a candidate is good looking. Perhaps the person is a good speaker or passionate critic. His/her political perspective may align with yours or there may be one thing that tips the scale such as the economy or education. Maybe one candidate is just more likable. I realize people sometimes process their choices along these lines, but I submit none are critical. What matters most are the issues impacting this country which protects us all, even those who disdain the gift they have been given. These issues should be boldly addressed.
I have heard people remark recently they want to vote for Kamala Harris because they want a woman for president at long last. That is certainly their right, but to vote on gender alone without striving to understand her political compulsions makes everyone eligible for disappointment down the road.
The problem with Harris is she is pretending to be a patriotic moderate when she is actually a left-winger. We know this because of what she has stated, how she has voted, who she hangs with, what she has done in her various offices, her past political positions, and her behavior as she campaigns. You may see her differently. All I’m asking is to be thorough in your investigation of her. There is much to know, and we are running out of time.
The decision to vote for Harris on gender alone is your right as a free-wheeling American but don’t be shocked if the following manifests quickly should she win.
The final conclusion of American autonomy is certain.
A determined move away from democracy toward socialism will occur.
Taxes will rise and multiply.
Government will expand. Dependency on it will increase.
The Supreme Court could be packed with activist justices.
Abortion will be sanctioned and protected no matter the circumstance.
The dollar will continue to purchase less as policies encourage inflation.
Our heritage will continue to be denigrated and destroyed.
Deaths from fentanyl and other deadly drugs will continue to rise.
Criminals will be released as cartel power in the country expands.
Your standard of living will decline as it becomes more difficult to achieve the things necessary to a decent life.
Parents will have less to say about their children’s future while the state has more.
Education will be replaced by socialist conscience.
The above and much more will occur if Harris is elected and will become absolute if the Democrats also win Congress. Thus far Harris has refused interviews that might force commitment. She clearly prefers voters not understand who she truly is. She asks that you feel the joy instead.
Understand for whom you are voting. The aforementioned doesn’t have to happen but will if we misjudge the seriousness of this election.
Larry W. Anderson is a retired educator.
