The Choice: Why It Is Important to Vote Down-Ballot

Check the boxes on both sides of your entire ballot

Issue #753 The Choice, Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Please share and subscribe to help us grow this publication.

---

If you like us, REALLY like us, please click the “Like” button at the end of this post!

We appreciate your support!

---

All Gas, No Brakes!

The 2024 Election is on November 5, 2024, two weeks from today.

However, as of today, over ten million (!) people have already voted, either at early voting sites or by submitting absentee or mail-in ballots. 

In several states, including Michigan, Republicans have passed laws prohibiting the counting of early ballots until after the polls close on Election Day. This means that the final results from those states may not be available for days after November 5. 

If you remember, the election was not called for Biden and Harris until the Saturday after Election Day!

But for those of you who haven’t voted yet, either by mail, absentee, or in person:

Why It Is Important to Vote Down Ballot

For people who do not pay close attention to politics and election cycles, it’s easier to focus primarily on the top of the ticket, often overlooking the other important candidates that appear further down the ballot. 

Yet, these often-neglected sections of the ballot can wield significant influence over our daily lives. As we approach another critical election day, it is paramount to recognize the importance of voting up and down the ballot and making informed choices about all candidates.

The Backbone of Local Governance

When people vote, they are often most invested in the presidential or gubernatorial races, but local and state officials determine much of what affects our daily lives. Mayors, city council members, school board representatives, and local judges are just a few examples of down-ballot positions directly affecting community-specific issues such as public safety, education policies, infrastructure projects, and local taxes.

These officials make decisions about our neighborhoods and cities, from setting property tax rates to determining school budgets and public transportation policies. Voting in these races ensures local leadership reflects the community's needs and priorities.

Legislative Influence

State legislatures play a pivotal role in shaping the laws that govern us. They can pass significant legislation on a wide range of issues, including healthcare, education, criminal justice reform, and environmental policies. By voting down the ballot, citizens can influence their states’ legislative priorities and directions, which can ultimately resonate on a national scale.

Checks and Balances

Another critical aspect of down-ballot voting is its contribution to maintaining checks and balances within the government. By voting for representatives at all levels of government, citizens are actively participating in a system designed to prevent any single branch or level of government from becoming too powerful. This balance is crucial to preserving democracy and ensuring that diverse viewpoints and interests are represented.

Judicial Impact

Elections often include positions for judges and other judicial roles that may seem less prominent but are equally impactful. The judges who preside over local and state courts can have lasting impacts on issues such as criminal justice, civil rights, and business regulations. Their interpretations of the law influence verdicts and legal precedents that shape the juridical landscape of entire communities. Therefore, understanding the candidates’ judicial philosophies and making informed decisions in these races is essential for ensuring fair and equitable legal systems.

Voter Engagement and Representation

Down-ballot races often see lower voter turnout, leading to decisions that may not fully reflect the community’s preferences. Participating in these elections, voters help build a more engaged and representative democracy where elected officials are truly accountable to their constituents.

Conclusion

This election season, it is essential to remember that every position on the ballot holds significance. From local school boards to state legislatures, these positions contribute to the shaping of policies and governance that directly impact our lives. By voting up and down the entire ballot, we ensure that our voices are heard at every level of government.

Please also encourage your friends and family to vote the entire ballot!

---