On Nov. 4, New Jersey residents will be voting for their next governor and if you’re a New Jersey college student who’s eligible to vote, here’s why you should exercise your right.
In a world that can sometimes feel out of control, voting is one of the few things we can control. If you are a student who is unhappy with the current political environment, one of the most crucial things you can do to make a change is to cast an informed vote. It is important to advocate for what you believe in, but it is even more important to encourage people to vote so change can become reality.
This gubernatorial election is particularly important because of how close the polls are between Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill and Republican candidate Jack Ciatterelli. If you want New Jersey to align with federal policy or to push against it, then you need to make your voice heard.
Voter turnout for the college demographic (Americans under 25) is consistently the lowest of any age group. Being young or uninformed does not absolve us of the real impact that politics has on our lives. Governors have immense power in shaping state legislation, which can affect us for many years to come. While taking the time out of the day to vote can be inconvenient, we should not let a short-term inconvenience come between us and our future.
Your vote represents more than just your opinion. You have the power to speak for people who are too young to vote, or perhaps those who are not physically able or do not have the means to access the voting polls.
This is an opportunity to advocate for what you believe in. Make your voice heard and just vote.
See you at the polls.
The Voice is intended to best represent the collective opinion of The Editorial Board. It is written by The Setonian’s Editor-in-Chief.
