Early voting in Chicago has begun. (Click here for times and locations.) If you have already voted here or elsewhere, thank you. If, however, you are a U.S. citizen and have not yet voted, here is a to do list:
- Vote.
- Vote because you can.
- Vote because so many others cannot.
- Vote because so many people fight for the opportunity that has been given to you.
- Vote even if you *know* your candidate will win. Nothing is certain.
- Vote even if you *know* your candidate will lose. See above.
- Vote even though no candidate is perfect. No one ever is.
- Vote because it is a duty.
- Vote because it is a privilege.
- Vote to have a say.
- Vote to offset the vote of a person whose obnoxious political comments have been annoying you all election season.
- Vote, or don’t complain about the outcome.
- Vote not just for President but for local and state officials and ballot initiatives that can often have a greater impact on your day-to-day life than the national race.
- Vote knowing what candidates and issues will be on your ballot. The Chicago Tribune has a tool for generating a customized ballot here.
- Vote based on facts and issues, not propaganda and emotion.
- Vote like the future depends on it. Spoiler: It does.
- Vote to be a part of history.
- Vote to be a part of the national dialogue.
- Vote rather than let others choose leaders for you.
- Vote because it is the least you can do for your country,
- …for your state,
- …for your community.
- Vote because the U.S. voter turnout rate hasn’t exceeded 60% nationally since 1968, which is pretty shameful.
- Vote early if you can, so you don’t have to worry about being “too busy” on election day. Information on Chicago early voting is here.
- Vote because your opinion matters.
- Vote because you matter.
- Vote because you care.
- Vote because you should care.
- Vote, and bring a friend or neighbor.
- Vote on behalf of your children or grandchildren who are too young to vote for themselves.
- Vote to get one of those “I voted” stickers. (Seriously, that would be enough to motivate my 3 year old.)
- Vote because some places will give you free food or drinks with proof that you voted.
- Vote because the results of the election can change your life.
- Vote, but be sure you are in the proper polling place. Chicagoans can check find their polling place here.
- Vote even though you “hate government.” It’s not going away.
- Vote using grace period voting if you forgot to register on time.
- Vote your conscious.
- Vote because it gives you a voice.
- Vote.
- Just vote.
Kim Z. Dale 