2020 is finally here. We are only a month away from the first Caucuses and Primaries. Are you ready to vote? Are you familiar with the issues? Are you interested? Or does all that has been going on over the past year have your interest ground down to the point you are turned off?
We all know how easy it is to tune out when we are bombarded by the media and all of their pundits trying to tell us what to think about the issues. You would think we do not have minds of our own or that we are children, not knowing enough to discern for ourselves the relevance of the political atmosphere we are in. These are tumultuous times. There is so much happening and the media outlets constantly attempt to paint a particular picture of what is going on. You tune to one station and they say one thing. Then you tune to another and they say the opposite. It becomes difficult to understand the true picture. As a result, we all tend to tune to those stations presenting evidence supporting our particular view.
Politicians, both local and in Washington, also have their particular points of view and it seems nothing will sway them away from their chosen positions. As they pursue Impeachment of the President, they forget about the other important issues confronting each of us wherever we may live. Issues such as the rising cost of medical and prescription drug prices, the drug crisis that has touched the lives of so many, the impact of trade and the agreements being pursued, our nation’s involvement in the affairs of other countries, the constant flow of foreign aid to other countries while the homeless languish in our streets and the looming $22 trillion-plus debt our government has taken on and will be handing over to our children and grandchildren.
It seems the politicians are only interested in pursuing their personal agendas with no concern for their constituents. Sure they talk a good talk and try to convince us they have our interest at heart but their actions speak so much louder than their words. It is difficult to believe they care and so many of them have been at this for far too many years.
With so much happening in the world today, it becomes ever more important we make an effort to educate ourselves about the issues. We must take stock of what is truly important to us. We must ask ourselves this year, “does my Senator, Congress Person, Governor, State Representative, Mayor, believe in and represent my interests and beliefs?” “How long has he or she been in office and over that time what has he or she accomplished for me, my family and what is the legacy being left for my children and grandchildren?” If these questions cannot be answered in the extreme positive, I suggest it is time for a change.
I urge everyone to get interested and educate yourself on the issues facing your community, your state, and our nation. Make an effort this year to make a difference. All issues, no matter how small or how large, should be decided by the people. This will only happen if we exercise our right to vote. Do not blindly put your faith in a politician. I do not believe there is a single one that can be trusted to fulfill their obligations as elected officials. They become so enamored of the power we give to them and the high life they lead while in power, they lose sight of the reason we elected them in the first place. So whatever your political persuasion, VOTE.