Hello Asheville,

As the 2024 election approaches, many Americans find themselves in a familiar predicament of dissatisfaction with the major candidates. Whether it’s policy disagreements, personal disapproval, or a sense of disillusionment with the political system, the temptation to abstain from voting can seem enticing. However, not voting is the worst way to protest your dissatisfaction. 

 1. Silence Equals Consent

By not voting, you are effectively consenting to the outcomes and decisions made by those who do vote. Elections are determined by those who show up, and if you don’t cast your ballot, you’re allowing others to make decisions for you. Your silence can be interpreted as complacency, and the issues that matter to you may go unaddressed.

 2. Missed Opportunity for Change

Elections are not just about choosing between the lesser of two evils, but more so about influencing the future direction of the country. By voting, you have the opportunity to support candidates and local initiatives that align with your values. These local elections often have a more immediate and direct impact on your daily life than the presidential race.

3. The Power of a Protest Vote

If neither major party candidate aligns with your values, consider casting a protest vote for a third-party or write-in candidate. While they may not win, a significant number of protest votes can send a clear message to the major parties that their platforms need to change. It’s a way to express your discontent while still participating in the democratic process.

4. Protecting Democracy

The act of voting itself is a cornerstone of democracy. By abstaining, you weaken the democratic process and contribute to voter apathy. High voter turnout is a sign of a healthy democracy, and your participation helps ensure that the system remains robust and representative of all citizens.

 5. Long-Term Impact

Today’s elections shape tomorrow’s policies. The candidates elected in 2024 will make decisions on critical issues like healthcare, education, climate change, and economic policy. Even if the choices are not ideal, the consequences of not participating could result in policies that are even further from what you want.

 6. Incremental Change Matters

Progress often happens in small steps. By voting, you can support candidates who may not be perfect but are moving in the right direction. Over time, incremental changes can lead to significant reforms. Abstaining from voting because of dissatisfaction with the options delays progress and can make future improvements even harder to achieve.

7. Civic Responsibility

Voting is not just a right, it’s also a responsibility. As citizens, we have a duty to engage with the political process and make our voices heard. By participating, we honor the struggles of those who fought for our right to vote and ensure that our democracy remains vibrant and inclusive.

While frustration with the available candidates is understandable, not voting is a counterproductive way to express that frustration. Instead, use your vote to make your voice heard, support down-ballot candidates, and contribute to the ongoing effort to improve the political landscape. Remember, democracy thrives when we all participate, even when the choices aren’t perfect. Make your vote count in 2024 and beyond.

Thank you for reading The Asheville View’s blog,

Xoxo Kirby