image credit: @libbyvanderploeg
We’re a few days away from election day and I don’t know what I could say at this point that hasn’t been said. I am tired, I am sad, I am enraged, and I need you all to go out and vote if you haven’t already.
I wrote the same two sentences four years ago and I can’t believe that I am writing them again, this time with even more at stake (or so it seems).
This election is crucial to this country… and the world. I can’t go into all the whys here, but if you have somewhat followed the news and been active on social media, you know what’s at stake. If you’re a woman. This is personal to you. If you are black or brown in this country. This is personal to you. If you’re an immigrant. This is personal to you.
Do I like only having the choice between two options? No. But until the political party system in the United States is changed to allow for a more diverse representation of its people in Congress, I only have two options, and the choice is obvious. Do we want to vote for a man who has been dividing this country for more than 8 years, keeps spewing lies and spreading increasingly horrible, racist and facist thoughts unapologetically? Or do we want someone, who wants the best for all people, not just the ones who support them, who believes in climate change, and the basic same rights for all citizens, and who wants to make peoples’ lives better?
This year not only do we have a presidential election, but also a congressional election. I am sure you all know this, but let’s recap: Congress has two chambers — the Senate and the House of Representatives. Congressional elections happen every two years. Voters choose one-third of senators and all members of the House of Representatives, plus the president this year.
The Senate has 100 members, who serve for six years. Right now, the Democrats have a 51–49-seat majority in the Senate. This year, there are 33 seats up for re-election.
The House has 435 members, which serve for two years. Currently, there are 222 Republicans and 213 Democrats, but all 435 seats are up for election.
Before laws are passed, both the Senate and House must pass the bill by majority vote, before it is sent to the President’s desk. So it’s imperative for the president to reach or keep a majority in both chambers to successfully legislate.
We need someone who cares about our democracy and you as a person, not just his ego. We need to vote for someone who will protect our democracy and rights as citizens. The Republicans act all high and mighty when they talk about their “freedom”, but they actually like to be all up in people’s business with their policies, which are intended to infringe on way more people’s rights (voter suppression, women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, just to name a few) than any democratic policies ever would.
If one thing has become abundantly clear in recent months (or if we’re honest, for much longer really), is that Republicans have been chipping away at voting rights in many states because they know that they can’t win elections if enough voters turn out for the elections. They are afraid of the changing demographic tide and will try to restrict and deny voters wherever they can. That is why it’s important for every single eligible person to get out and vote.
Some people believe a vote is an expression of opinion (and if in doubt vote third party, or not at all), but it really isn’t. Your vote is an instrument and only the outcome of an election is what matters. Even if the choices are limited, we still have a choice and have to choose wisely. Because really, nobody cares about your protest vote (especially in a swing state where your vote matters that much more!).
It might make you feel smug for a minute, because you think that you’re not buying into the system, but unless your vote is followed up with some grass roots activism, it actually means very little. And in this election, it might cost us all. You really don’t want to be on the wrong side of history on this one.
Make an informed and well-balanced decision. (And yes, I am aware that might require a little bit of research. Welcome to your civic duties.) Your values might not completely align with any of the candidates, but you vote for the best overall option. That’s what you do.
If it’s not clear by now, I am voting for Kamala Harris (and Tim Walz) this week. The only reasonable choice.
Please vote. Bring a friend. Save America and our democracy.
J
October 31, 2024 at 10:53 amThanks for this. What too often gets lost in the discussion of an effective administration is the congress that they have. Look at Obama, and how he was so limited on filling Federal judge positions, and then the Supreme Court, because of the Republican Senate. Look at Congress refusing to pass bipartisan bills because they didn’t want a ‘win’ for Biden. It’s ridiculous. I am SO HOPING for a Harris win next week, and that it is decisive enough that arguments fall by the wayside. With the polls this close, it’s hard to imagine, but I still hope. And that she has the support of Congress that she needs. This is a rough time in the world, and in the US, and we need a great team at the top to travel those waters.
We all voted via mail pretty quickly after our ballots arrived.
San
November 1, 2024 at 9:06 pmI am figuratively breathing into a paper bag right now. I am so nervous and really, really hope people will not sit out this election and actually cast an informed vote this time. We need Harris to win.
Tobia | craftaliciousme
October 31, 2024 at 11:12 amAmen.
Welcome to your civil duties.
San
November 1, 2024 at 9:07 pmThank you friend. You understand.
Ally Bean
October 31, 2024 at 12:47 pmWell said. I’ve voted by absentee ballot already and OF COURSE voted for Harris/Walz. Rather keen on democracy, ‘ya know? 🇺🇸
San
November 1, 2024 at 9:07 pmRather keen! Me too, Ally. Me, too.
Jenny
October 31, 2024 at 5:24 pmSo well put, San. I voted last week! If I allow myself to think too much about it, I’m sick with anxiety. Thanks for posting.
San
November 1, 2024 at 9:07 pmLet’s keep thinking positive thoughts. Oof.
NGS
November 1, 2024 at 6:31 amLiterally (like literally), the fate of the world depends on this. Trump is unstable and I don’t want an unstable man in charge of all the nuclear warheads the US has. I don’t understand how people can even consider him as a choice. Ugh. I’m so stressed out about this.
San
November 1, 2024 at 9:08 pmWhat’s the difference between humans and animals? Animals wouldn’t let their dumbest member lead the pack.
I thought you’d appreciate this. I don’t even understand either how people can vote for this man, or even be undecided at this point.
Shelby H.
November 1, 2024 at 8:57 amThis is such a powerful reminder of the importance of voting. It truly does impact the lives of so many, and your message emphasizes how crucial it is to stay engaged and make our voices heard. As a carpet cleaner, I meet people from all walks of life, and it’s clear that our communities are shaped by the decisions we make at the polls. Thank you for encouraging this important conversation!
San
November 1, 2024 at 9:09 pmThank you for stopping by, Shelby and for your thoughtful comment.
Meike
November 1, 2024 at 10:20 amI am really anxious about the election this year. I voted first thing when I got my ballot so I am all done (so is my husband), but man… I am already wondering how I will explain it to my kids if whose name should not be mentioned wins. Crossing my fingers that I don’t have to have this conversation and wishing with all my heart for a clear Harris/Walz win.
San
November 1, 2024 at 9:10 pmWe’ve voted last week and it felt good to cast the vote although our vote here in CA will not have any weight… I really hope the people in the swing states take their responsibility seriously.
Allison
November 1, 2024 at 7:42 pmIt’s terrifying. I’m almost more angry at people who smugly claim that they’re not voting than people who are voting for Trump (cue Alexander Hamilton, “Jefferson has beliefs, Burr has none). I only wish I could vote. Holding you all in my heart this week.
San
November 1, 2024 at 9:10 pmThank you, Allison, for being invested in our democracy. Good vibes are appreciated.