To Vote or Not to Vote - The Pro's and Con's

Our country was founded upon democratic ideals, structured by a republican foundation. It was intended to be the perfect balance, and the best method of continuing to maintain as much freedom as considerably possible for a peaceful people.

So when you vote:

• You continue the process our founding fathers felt was most appropriate
• You get to have a say in what happens in this country
• Because you get to have a say, your opinion will make the difference on tons of issues that effect just about everyone including - new laws, the rate of taxes, wages and other national 'fees'.
• You become a part of the majority, and in this country, majority rules (or at least that's how it's supposed to go)

Just because our current voting system was intended upon being the greatest and most fair method of running our country, doesn't mean that it's all roses. There are some downsides to being an active voter:

• You'll have to carve out plenty of time in your life to pay attention to at least some of the political happenings in your area and nationally.
• You'll need to carve out more time to research what you find out, to make sure you know what is REALLY happening and how you can make an effect.
• There may not be any "right" answers, but there are definitely "wrong" votes. Problem is, you can't always tell which vote is the right or wrong one, until after the vote has been cast and counted (ex: Obama, Bush, Obamacare, Patriot Act, etc..)
• By continuing to take part in our corrupt system (by voting), we stifle many changes that could be made if a mass 'voter-strike' were to take place.

There are many who feel that Not Voting is the answer. Non-voters often believe that by not voting, they:

• Are not involving themselves in the corrupt political processes that are hidden behind a democratic mask.
• Are saving time from not paying any attention to what is going on in the world of politics.
• Are taking precious votes away from politicians who are likely just going to use the power they could've gained by more votes, to pursue their own interests.

When you don't vote:

• You give the upper hand to those with more money then honor, popularity or integrity.
• You get no say in what new laws will or won't pass, or which politicians will or won't take any particular elected office.
• Because you get no say in the laws or elected officials, you also get no say in the rate of taxes, wages or budgetary spending.
• If you don't vote, you probably also don't pay much attention to the political nonsense that goes on throughout the nation, which means you are less likely to be aware of any major sweeping changes that are likely to effect you.