espite the heated debates and intense divides among U.S. voters during the 2012 Elections, voter turnout nationwide
dropped to 57.5%, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center. 93 million citizens did not vote. Why do only a little over half of eligible voters exercise one of their most fundamental rights of citizenship? Especially during a dispiriting election season in 2016, it is important to consider why voting is important.
As a starter, the right to vote has been fought for and won by marginalized groups in the U.S., and similar struggles are being played out today around the globe. It is important to honor those who cannot or could not vote. Perhaps most critically, voting is also the most direct influence you have on your government. If you want something changed or an environmental issue addressed, you can use the power of your vote to let leaders know what you want. This communication between the voters and their government is critical to addressing the issues that affect our marine environments. And if you think one vote won’t matter much, look up the 2008 Alaska congressional race that was decided by 1 vote out of over 10,000 cast!
At the voting booth, vote for leaders who care about marine issues like ecotourism, sustainable ecosystems, or climate change. Millennials in particular declined in voting share in 2012, so it is imperative to get as many young people registered and voting as possible. Conservation can be much more easily achieved with environmentally-minded leaders and protective legislation. The vote truly is your voice as a citizen, and for every voice that does not speak up, the other voices become more influential. It is crucial to make yourself heard.
While most states require voter registration before November, some states do allow same-day voter registration:
Colorado
Connecticut
District of Columbia
Idaho
Illinois
Iowa
Maine
Minnesota
Montana
New Hampshire
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Here you can follow the state procedures for voter registration and vote on the same day, November 8th. And in North Dakota, registration isn’t required at all.
Even if you are not in one of the U.S. Presidential swing states, the power of voting affects many local, state, and federal positions as well as propositions and initiatives for our communities. Being informed is one of the best ways to shape the type of government you want, and what it aims to do. You can keep up with current marine environmental news on websites like The Ocean Foundation’s news stream (https://www.oceanfdn.org/blog) and other news sites and online resources. Above all, vote before or on November 8th!
Good Policy Requires Your Vote
NOVEMBER 8th
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By Austine Horne
SEVENSEAS - 13