The Issue: Deadline approaches to apply for absentee ballot What we think: Don't let laziness keep you from voting
Look around. Economic crisis. War in Iraq and Afghanistan. Resurgent Russia. Nuclear proliferation. It's an important time in American history to be informed. The first presidential debate Friday made it apparent that this is a crucial juncture in history for the American people to select a new commander-in-chief who can solve our economic crises, end the conflict in Iraq, and re-establish America's standing in the world.
No matter your politics, it's an especially important time for college students - many of whom will be voting in their first presidential election - to register to vote and obtain an absentee ballot if necessary. Whether you're in CSOM, LSOE, A&S, or CSON, the issues facing our nation will be affecting you after you graduate. It is imperative that students watch the debates and become informed on all the issues so they can make a proper choice on Election Day.
Our problems as a nation are not going to be solved overnight, and not necessarily even with this one election. These issues will continue to face our generation, our children's generation, and generations after that. It is our duty to register to vote so we can get the ball rolling in the right direction. Don't let laziness be your excuse; registering to vote is quick and simple.
There are myriad Web sites where you can register to vote, like www.projectvote.org/register. If you're not from Massachusetts, you'll need an absentee ballot. Go to a site like www.govoteabsentee.org to find instructions specific to your home state. When you make your decision, make sure it's an informed one. Read up on both candidates' policies on their respective Web sites, www.barackobama.com and www.johnmccain.com, read the newspaper, and follow the debates.
The two remaining presidential debates are scheduled for Oct. 7 and 15, and the vice presidential debate is tonight; put your homework on hold to watch American presidential history unfold. BC Votes should be commended for offering a viewing of the debate in Robsham on Friday. Tonight's debate will be shown at Devlin 008. Hopefully the group will continue to do that for the final two debates.
Talk to your professors, your friends, your parents about the issues and the candidates. Go to a BC Republicans or BC Democrats meeting to learn about the different perspectives so you can make as informed a decision as possible.
This isn't just about the vote you cast. This is about who will run America for the next four years - not a task to be taken lightly. Prove wrong the hackneyed cliche that all college students are apathetic; register to vote today.
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