Editor, Times-Union:
Our future is on the ballot from the presidential race at the top of the governor’s race and all the key races down ballot. Control of Congress, our ability to vote, our democratic processes, long-held freedoms, are all on the ballot. “A lot of the things that get decided at the federal level really are so distanced from the everyday of peoples’ lives ... But the state-level elections are the ones that really have a huge, huge impact ...” (AARP Bulletin, July-August 2024)
Early voting begins in Indiana on October 8. Information about early voting can be found at www.in.gov and voting locations can be found at www.indianavoters.in.gov. October 7th is the last day to register and November 4th is the last day to vote early. The Times-Union published voting information in the Tuesday, October 1st newspaper, page 2A.
Some things to consider when casting your vote:
One party has worked, is working, and will continue to work tireless to fix what’s broken; the other party continues to try to break and tear down what already works.
One party seeks to bring our country together; the other party keeps trying to tear us apart through fear mongering, anger and the promise of revenge and possibly violence.
One party promises to retore and extend freedoms and equality; the other party promises the return of suppression and control - especially over reproductive health care.
One party offers compassionate, empathetic leaders; the other wants to force a controlling, narcissistic, wannabe dictator upon us.
One party strives to reveal truth; the other party pushes “alternative facts.”
One party sees people as human beings possessing boundless potential; the other party views us as subjects to divide (us versus them/the others) and control.
One party actually has plans for our country; the other party has “concepts” of plans.
One party believes in fair and open elections; the other party has a leader that will only accept election results if he wins.
As he stepped down from the presidency in 1789, George Washington urged Americans to always place the interest of the nation as a whole over their political and regional affiliation and warned against political infighting. He stated, “The worst enemy of government is loyalty to party over nations.”
Whether you vote early or wait until Election Day on Nov. 5, think carefully about your choices. Gather all the information you can about the candidates from both parties up and down the ballot. The election choices we make now will have consequences not only for your immediate future but potentially the futures of your children and grandchildren.
Paula Brown
Warsaw