This has been a politically tumultuous year filled with anger, panic, chaos, and fear. In a book entitled, “Divided America”, the editors of the Associated Press deemed America more divided now than at any point since the close of the Civil War. Bitter campaigns, protests, and even riots have touched every corner of our great nation, hurting many, and polarizing our people. In short, this is one of the most tense times in this country’s history.

In a time of such extreme polarization, somehow our country remains inactive and sedate. In 2018, there were Women’s Marches, Marches for our Lives, and Marches for Life. However, with little actual change, it seems that we are just marching in place. There were protests, angry Facebook posts, and rallies. In short, not only are people polarized and more prone to be restricted by party lines, but they are enraged. People are furious at those on the other side of the aisle, regardless of political alignment. But is it enough to be angry if we never take action?

There has been a rising sense of exasperation in America for decades. At previous points when the American people got mad, voter turnout still remained relatively low. When anger against the Vietnam War peaked, voter turnout hovered in presidential elections around 60 percent. In midterm elections, turnout was even lower. According to the Pew Research Center, in 2016 the U.S. turnout among eligible voters (55.7 percent) trailed 25 nations out of 32 in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. In other words, the American voter turnout is pathetic compared to other significantly developed nations.

As you read this article, there are twenty-four PMHS seniors who will be eligible to vote by Election Day, November 6. It is essential that all of them go and vote. Our nation is one that was founded on the principles of democracy. Since the passage of the 15th and 19th amendments, younger Americans were given voter eligibility. If America’s youth wants more than just to express rage, but enact change, they must take advantage of this principle.

It is the height of civic irresponsibility to have the privilege of voting to determine the U.S. government and not exercise that right.

Regardless of political views, it is undeniable that the results of the Trump-Clinton 2016 election, one of the closest in our nation’s history, has made a permanent impact on the U.S. and the world.

The election was decided by a small number of votes in a few key states. Therefore, if one buys into the notion we hear expressed every morning in Mr. Rothstein’s announcements that “your voice matters,” we need to extend that belief to also mean that your vote matters. It is possibly the most patriotic thing that one can do; many Americans have died to protect our right to cast a ballot for whoever we choose. Think of it not as a right, but as a duty. The familiar “I’m not voting because I do not like either candidate,” cannot cut it anymore. If you do not like a candidate, write one in, but do not let it stop you from voting. Unless physically unable, deciding not to vote is a lazy and irresponsible decision that shows a lack of care towards the incredible amount of hardship that has been endured to secure this right.

Even if one cannot vote, one should still get involved. Any student in PMHS can encourage their teachers, friends, and family who are old enough to go vote and make a difference. Political views are irrelevant. If one feels angry, enthusiastic, or at all moved by any political action in the past year, take November 6 as the chance to deal with that emotion and go vote. It does not matter who one votes for as long as one fulfills his or her constitutional duty and votes for someone.

Author Louis L’Amour once wrote, ”To make democracy work, we must be a nation of participants, not simply observers. One who does not vote has no right to complain.” This is a time of division and a time of change. Right now, what all of America needs is for you to express your right, your freedom, and your duty to go vote.