Are you 18? Are you eligible to vote? Thinking of NOT voting? Don't you dare. Here's why:
1. You already paid to do it.
I still remember when I got my first paycheck for my summer job working as a lifeguard. Already planning a shopping spree with my new found abundance of cash, I was slapped by words like “Social Security,” “State Tax,” “Federal Tax.” What was that all about?!? My boss responded to my complaints with: “Well, you like living in America, don’t you?” Well you know what? I did. Because here’s something that I never realized until that day: my taxes paid for my democracy. All the equipment needed to vote? You bought it. The locations used for voting? You pay their rent. The president’s salary? That’s right, you guessed it – you’re the one who pays it. So go ahead and get your vote on – you already paid to do it.
2. You’re the boss.
Parents still treating you like you’re four? Older siblings constantly reminding you of your “little” status? Teachers talking down to you in class? Well, ready for this uplifting ego boost? You’re the President’s boss. That’s right. The President of the United States answers to you. In fact, all elected officials are responsible to the voters. So if you vote, you’re pretty much like the CEO of our government. Congrats.
3. All votes count the same.
Your parents might still get to enforce your curfew, but guess what? Their vote counts just as much as yours. Kim Kardashian might have over 15 million followers on Twitter, but your ballot gets cast just the same. Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Kristen Stewart, Taylor Lautner, The Hunger Games cast – that’s right, you guessed it. It doesn’t matter how many sold old shows you’ve performed, how much money you have, how many awards you’ve won – everyone’s vote is the same. So cast your vote and relish that moment when you have just as much power as Selena Gomez… even if you’re not dating Justin Bieber.
4. It determines how much money you pay.
Let’s get back to those deductions on your pay check. I love being an American as much as the next gal, but that doesn’t mean I’m totally thrilled about having money taken out of every paycheck. But do you know who decides how much you pay back in taxes? You do. Your vote elects the officials who make the ultimate decision. So if you don’t like a deduction you see – vote to change it.
5. It’s just plain important.
This reason gets a little heavy but bear with me - voting is simply important. We’ve all learned about the revolutionary war fought for our country’s independence. We’ve wrote papers about the various movements, rallies and protests for equal representation at the ballot box. We’ve listened to lectures about democracy and freedom. But here’s the thing – it’s all still happening. Every day, men and women are fighting and risking their lives to protect and defend our freedom. It’s an honor and a privilege that we can vote. It’s your right.
6. You can go with friends.
One afternoon where it's not only socially acceptable but also encouraged for you and your friends to all go to the same place at the same time? Sounds like a Voting Party to me! So grab your BFFs, dress in your best patriotic gear, cast your vote in style and celebrate by treating yourself to lunch. You deserve it!
7. You get a sticker. So get excited.
Vote. Get a sticker to wear all day. Set it as your Facebook status. Tweet about it. This is your chance to brag – so go wild and be proud.
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