Election Reflections

I read with interest about a survey that revealed an extremely low voter turnout in the 18 - 25 age category. I recall it being in the area of 15% of the eligible voters in this age group actually voted. As pathetic as the overall voter turnout was, this age group brings apathy to a new low. Here is the kicker; the articles I read gave various reasons (excuses) for the low turnout in this group. It sited the negative ads that turned off this group. It sited the the prevailing position among these young people that it doesn't really matter who is in office, it's all the same. It quoted some as saying they are just fed up with how Washington behaves and they want no part of it. What a bunch of hooey! What is seems to me is that they just don't care, and they have no idea what is going on in Washington. Further, they don't realize that Washington is just part of the voting process, many local offices and local issues are decided from these elections that directly affect them. Second, they are lazy. They have not even taken the simple step to register, obviously, not all, but most. Many are so out of touch that they are not even aware that a registration is necessary. It is amazing that in the midst of the information age, and the most technologically advanced individuals are so ill informed. I recall in the last presidential election, a young first time voter wanted to know what number to call on his cell phone to vote, like he did on American Idol. The third reason from my observation is that this age group is just into themselves. They will protest some of the most silly things on campus that have so little significance, or will go to great lengths to participate in amusing or so called 'spontaneous' events (ie Zombie walks, or world's largest pillow fight, etc). Where does voting fit into their that mix?

Voting seems outside of their peripheral. It seems to far detached to enter into even of secondary importance. It is a sad commentary for what lies ahead for our country. I remember my first voting experience. I couldn't wait to get registered and vote. When I watch the election night returns and saw this huge number of votes cast, I knew that number would be one less had I not voted. My vote was actually posted on the television screen. I was proud to vote and counted it a duty and privilege to do so. I consider it the bare minimum a citizen of this great country can do. It is a freedom that many Americans have fought and died for to preserve and protect this right. It is a freedom that is only dreamed of in many peoples and countries across this globe.

There are some who want to challenge the voting process and make it easier for the lazy, uninformed, voter to cast a ballot. Perhaps on line vote casting or cell phone or texting. Do we really want to cater to those who don't care? Privileges come with responsibility, and exercising that privilege should take some, albeit small, amount of effort.

Years ago I remember the "get out and vote" campaign. A good idea that hasn't taken a lot of traction. How about the "stay home and don't complain" campaign. Stay home, don't vote, and don't complain. Let others make the decisions for you and your country, so our young adults can participate in the more important events, like world's largest cotton candy eating contest.