Let your voice be heard: Why voting is important

With only a couple of weeks left before Election Day, the battle for your vote has in some regions reached an almost uncomfortable intensity.

In addition to candidates for various offices, many of us will see propositions, referendums, initiatives and amendments on the ballot.

As you vet the candidates for each leadership role, I encourage you to also do your research on proposed ballot measures.

Amending your state constitution is a big deal. As one of my friends said recently, “Our constitution should not be for sale to the highest bidder.”

Out-of-state special interest groups with bucketloads of money are working overtime to buy their way in to some states to alter the document that serves as the state’s supreme law.

There is much to consider this election season as several critical issues that will impact the citizenry are on the table. Many of those issues will impact us near term, but they will also set the stage for the future of our country and the future of our world.

How the next administration implements their proposed policies will be driven by many factors, not the least of which will be the makeup of the next Congress.

There are 33 U.S. Senate seats up for grabs — 10 seats held by Republicans, 19 held by Democrats and four held by independents that caucus with Democrats.

All 435 of the seats in the U.S. House of Representatives are up for election. All the chamber’s nonvoting members — including American Samoa, District of Columbia, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands — are up for election, as well.

As citizens and humans, we have many shared concerns. How we feel those concerns should be addressed determines how we vote.

Politics and policy, although related, are distinct concepts in the realm of governance and public affairs.

I encourage you to choose policy over politics when doing your research and carefully evaluate information about candidates and ballot initiatives.

What is the difference? Politics involves the process by which groups of people make decisions, often within the context of power dynamics.

Politics encompasses the activities, actions and debates surrounding governance, including election campaigns, party affiliations and legislative negotiations.

Policy refers to specific plans, courses of action, or guidelines that governments adopt to address issues or problems. Policies are often shaped by research, expert opinions and societal needs.

Politics prioritizes winning elections, gaining influence and managing public opinion. It can include strategies for mobilizing voters, building coalitions and dealing with opponents.

Policy emphasizes the implementation of laws, regulations and programs aimed at achieving desired outcomes in areas like health care, education, the economy and the environment.

While politics and policy are different, they are interconnected. Political considerations frequently influence policy decisions, and effective policies can enhance a politician’s reputation and electoral prospects.

Conversely, a focus on political gain can sometimes lead to shortsighted or ineffective policies.

Some of you have already cast your ballots, as early and mail-in voting is an option in many states.

Election Day is Nov. 5 and actually your final opportunity to have your say. I hope you take advantage of this opportunity to have your say.