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Health & Fitness

Voting: a Civil Right

Voice your opinion and vote in the 2012 election

By: Eric Richard

“Ask not what your country can do for you, as what you can do for your country.” These words made famous by former President John F. Kennedy at his inauguration address.

So what can you do for your country: Vote. It is simpler than you think.

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In the 2008 election nearly 80 million eligible citizens did not vote. Many Americans feel their vote does not matter or a majority of other reasons: long lines, failure to go to the polls, unclear registration requirements, or not liking either candidate. 

The controversy of the 2000 election illustrates why it matters. The election was so close it had to be determined by the United States Supreme Court in favor of Bush. Every vote counts.

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If you go to the polls first thing in the morning there are hardly every long lines. Even if you leave only fifteen minutes earlier you can still make it to the polls to vote and not be late for work.

What happens when you physically cannot make it to the polls? You can still vote by absentee ballot. 

As a citizen of the United States it is a person’s duty to vote for it allows you to voice your opinion. By not attending the polls on Election Day you are allowing someone else to take control. Don’t let this happen and make a stand for what you believe in.  It is your civil right.  

 Your vote does matter! Make sure to register; your deadline is October 30th by person, and October 23rd postmarked by mail. Be there November 6th at you local voting station to cast your vote! To help promote the 2012 election, WCSU students in the Writing, Linguistics and Creative Process Department's Advertising, Copywriting and Promotions class created a Twitter page. Also check out their blogs at www.danbury.patch.com. Get educated on whom to vote for by visiting our Facebook page.

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