I just have to talk for a moment about political ads.  It’s a slippery slope this time of year, and I struggle with the negative political ads as elections come around.  If you think about the ads currently running on television, everybody is either too corrupt or awful to serve.  With the negative ads often over inflating accomplishments and finger pointing, it’s hard to determine what to do.  I would encourage everyone to vote, but don’t just vote based on the political adds, and don’t let the ads make you not vote because you don’t think there is anyone to vote for.  Do your own research and vote for the people who share your beliefs.

                Voting is a privilege in the United States, and how we shape our world, but it’s up to us to research the candidates.  If you vote along party lines, make sure that the people on the ballot are focused on your needs.  If you vote independent, research all the candidates.  There is a great deal of information online about the candidates, making this time better to do research than any other time in history.   If the person is getting reelected, research their current statistics, from how many votes they cast and how they voted.   If they haven’t held the office before, what have they been doing.  Find out why are they running, and what do they stand for? 

                When you are doing your research, think about the person.  Why are they seeking to hold an office?  Are they really all about the people, or are they trying to further their own interests?  Ask yourself, what issues are important to you?  When you know what’s important, look for candidates that will forward those issues.  These days, the economy and women’s rights seem high on the list.  If those things are important to you, who in your district can help with those issues?

                The most important thing, once you determine what’s important to you, is to make sure you are registered to vote.  If you need information or help, go to How to Register to Vote | USAGov to learn more.  As American’s, we have a voice and if we use that voice things can improve.  We have the ability to move our country in a direction that we, as a majority, want the country to go in if we use our voices and vote.  Never underestimate how important it is for your voice to be heard.

                As we continue down this path to the elections, don’t just let the political ads steer your vote.  Do your research.  Look at the issues that are important to you and find the candidate that will fight for you.  Our country is great and will continue to be with the people voting for what’s important.  Your vote, and the votes of everyone around you are important.   It’s all a part of being happy, for life.