There were only two bubbles to fill in. Just two little ovals next to two names, offering me a choice that I finally had the power to make with my newfound 18-year-old-ness. Penning them in with dark, black ink was exhilarating—in that moment, I opted to identify as someone’s constituent; I took responsibility for the people who represent me.
Election Day, which happened on November 3, saw people across the nation exercise their right to select their public officials. In Tompkins County, we are divided into wards depending on where we live, and these wards determine the officials we can vote for. In my ward, I had the opportunity to vote for mayor and alderperson.
My first vote, I must admit, was profoundly lacking in influence. Our fearless leader, Svante Myrick, was running unopposed for mayor of Ithaca, and the man running for alderperson in my ward was also running unopposed. Basically, I voted for people who couldn’t lose—perhaps not the ideal model of democracy.
But in no way did this make me feel as if my vote was invalid or pointless, because on a personal level it changed the way I fit into this community. I didn’t have to fill in either of those bubbles; I didn’t even have to go to the polling place. Just as much as it is my democratic right to cast my vote at age 18, it is also my right to not do so. But because I did, I made a statement. I said that I trusted these two people to define me in a political sense. As their constituent, I agreed to take some fragment of responsibility for the choices that they will make.
In many ways, it’s a terrifying commitment. I’ve just signed my support onto two people who I’m merely hoping will keep the promises they’ve made. But without this sensation of sudden responsibility, I don’t think our political system could function. Behind every leader must exist a force of voters whose chosen affiliation with them gives them a sense of shared duty—a sense that drives them to see their community thrive.
Many seniors are at or are nearing the age at which they can cast their first vote. I urge you not to give up that vote or any vote thereafter; don’t let your voice get lost. It may feel as if your bubbles have no real purpose, like those first two I filled in—but they do. When you vote, you are deciding on an individual to speak for you and stand up for your needs. Imagine silently letting such an important decision pass you by. You’re stronger than that. Wear your “I Voted” sticker with pride.