Students encouraged to vote, make an impact on Election Day

By The Editors

The presidential election is approaching. In just a few weeks, about 55 percent of the American population will decide the future of our country’s leadership.

Regardless of party affiliation, students should be at the polls Nov. 6. Students should cast their ballot with pride, knowing they have personally helped change the future of their cities, states and nation.

The presidential election is one of many important elections on ballots this year. Governors, senators, representatives, state legislators, and judges are on ballots across the United States. There are propositions and state questions that will directly impact students and their families.

For example, Moore has two propositions on the ballot this year.

One raises the property tax by a fraction of a percent. The other temporarily raises the sales tax by .25 percent to purchase land for an aquatic facility, a community center, a farmers market, and a two-mile walking trail.

Moore’s ballot initiative is just one example of how local elections may affect the lives of citizens.

Young voters also have a low turnout rate. Youth ages 18-24 comprise about 12 percent of the population, but cast less than 10 percent of the votes in 2008, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. All other age groups older than 24 have a turnout rate of 60 percent or more.

Students who are frustrated with the presidential election are affected by propositions in their cities, which is why it is important for every student to head to the polls.

Another issue that directly affects students is funding for Federal Pell Grants and student loans.

In 2011, the Pell Grant program received a $5.7 billion cut and subjected many students to a reduction in or complete elimination of Pell Grant funds.

Students who rely on these funds to attend college should acknowledge the issue when considering whether or not to vote.

There are many important issues besides the presidential election on the ballot this year.

Students should not be discouraged by negativity from campaigns, but instead, should realize that every election, proposition and state question will affect their lives.