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Posted February 21, 2004 |
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Democracy: Not a spectator sport
by Idaho Senator Larry Craig
With the presidential election taking shape and the recent passing of President's Day, I was struck by an idea.
What if we celebrated this holiday each year by making sure we're registered to vote? I can think of no better way to honor our Founding Fathers.
When I was thinking how to begin this piece, I was tempted to lead off with Al Capone's famous tongue-in-cheek advice to Chicago voters to "vote early and vote often." However, I decided it would be more appropriate to start with the words of Thomas Jefferson instead, who said, "the price of freedom is eternal vigilance."
While Jefferson's words have been used frequently in reference to the war on terrorism, participation in our democratic system is also a vital part of the "eternal vigilance" of which this Founding Father spoke. However, simply voting is not enough.
Citizens need to keep themselves educated on the issues important to them, and keep track of the performance of their elected officials. After all, uninformed voters may be hurting themselves.
While the presidential election is getting all the attention this year, three-quarters of Idaho's congressional delegation is up for re-election; my collegue in the Senate, Mike Crapo, and congressmen Mike Simpson and C.L. "Butch" Otter. Clearly, it is an important year for Idahoans to learn about the candidates, register to vote and exercise that right of citizenship.
In Idaho, there are several ways for residents to register to vote. You may register at the voting precinct on the day of the election, but I would encourage everyone to avoid the rush and long lines by registering early. Register with your county clerk or voting precinct registrar up to 24 days before an election.
Idaho citizens are also allowed to register through the mail. Registration forms are available in various public offices, but they must be postmarked on or before the 25th day before the election.
If you are not sure whether or not you're registered, contact your county clerk. If you have moved since last time you voted, you will need to register again.
I understand that some might question the need to vote, wondering if it really matters. After all, the United States is a nation of 300 million people. Can one vote really make a difference?
Well, I encourage you to ask the residents of Harrison. In Harrison's 2003 mayoral election, the candidates tied. They were dead even. One vote in either direction would have decided the election. And, of course, who could forget the now infamous 2000 presidential elections?
The difference of one vote in each precinct in Florida would have produced a different outcome.
I don't know if this year's elections will be as close, but I doubt anyone predicted the 2000 elections would be that tight, either.
Don't miss out on your chance to influence the future. Voting is a right and a responsibility of citizenship. However, it is also a privilege we have as members of a free nation, a privilege that many in the world long to possess.
We should not treat lightly that which so many would die, and are dying, to obtain.
Please register to vote, and vote often. But don't take Al Capone too seriously. One vote per election, please!
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