Be Counted

With the general election coming up in a little over a month, I’m sure you’ve seen your share of campaign commercials, flyers, and buttons. While the barrage of political campaigning may seem like a lot, it’s important that we take the time to educate ourselves so that we can be informed voters.

Do you know who you’re voting for this November? What are the issues that are important to you? For me, each candidate’s stance on things like health care and financial aid are important points to consider, as these are just a couple of the things that impact us as college students. Do your research this month and really learn what each candidate stands for.

To help keep you informed, the American Democracy Project will be hosting four debate watches.
Wed, October 3, Riverfront Residence Hall, Presidential
Thur, October 11, Riverfront Residence Hall, Vice-Presidential
Tues, October 16, Kiva Auditorium, Presidential
Mon, October 22, Beecher Community Schools, Presidential

Each of the debate watches will begin at 8:30PM and, following small group discussion, end by 11:30PM. These are great opportunities to get out there, learn what the candidates stand for, and hear what your classmates and community members have to say about the upcoming election. Be sure to check one (or more!) out, and maybe you’ll see Sam, Tolani, Chad, or me. You can also share your reaction during the event on Twitter by hashtagging #NCADebates12.

In the meantime, make sure you register to vote before it’s too late! The deadline to register for the November 6 general election is October 9.  If you’re not going to be in your home town to vote, the deadline to submit your absent voter ballot application is by 2PM on November 3.  You can visit  the Michigan Secretary of State for an easy step-by-step guide to register to vote and check out Project Vote Smart for more information about the candidates and the upcoming election.

Make sure your vote is counted this November, because you never know the difference that just one vote can make.