Importance of Voting

Importance of Voting

This year, like no other during my lifetime, or the lifetime of my parents for that matter, voting is important. In the past presidential election, the percentage of eligible voters who voted in the United States was about 58%. In most countries where democracy is the form of governance, the percentage of people who vote is larger. During every election season commentators in the U.S. discuss the fact that we do not vote in this country as we should and that this complacency will harm the democracy which we all cherish. I agree with these sentiments. 

Almost on a daily basis we hear news about politicians who are either directly or indirectly attempting to suppress the vote, and other politicians that are trying to promote and encourage the vote. Regardless of the motives of these politicians, the fact remains that the best protection for our democracy is the vote. I myself have voted in every election which I was eligible to vote. This year is different. This year there are issues which place our very democracy at the core of the country's interest. Many Americans have seen events take place over the past several years that have never happened before. In addition, the importance and the significance of the courts, the lawyers and the rule of law are even more significant in ensuring access to the ballot box. Many believe that this is the most important election since the Civil War. 

Much has been said about the power of the President and the Congress to "stack the courts," or to put into judicial positions only people that agree with the politics of the President or the majority in the Senate. I, for one, think that merit and experience should always be the prime consideration in the appointment of judges and their politics should not be a part of the process. However, this is a naive presumption in today's politically charged atmosphere. Although, it is true that the people for whom one votes can influence who is recommended ultimately who is selected to be a judge in our judicial system, and therefore the vote this year has a special importance. I was very pleased to know that the current state legislature had made election day a holiday in Virginia and I have also made election day a holiday for the law firm on November 3, 2020. I place the importance of voting, not only this year, but every year, as a key part of retaining our democracy and our respect for the rule of law without which the United States of America and everything that I have stood for my entire life and that this law firm stands for would mean nothing. So I can only saw two words to all the people who read this blog, and that is: "GO VOTE." 

Visit the Virginia Department of Elections Voter Portal for any of the following voting needs you may have:

• Update your address.

• Apply to Vote Absentee by Mail.

• Find your polling place.

• Check your voting history.