Pollsters and political analysts are busily forecasting the outcome of our 2012 presidential election;
candidates are campaigning with fervor; and voters are looking for the facts. Sometimes, in the pursuit
of those facts, other unexpected information may also be revealed, even in regard to the voters
themselves. This is the case in reviewing the 2008 presidential election. Depending on the source used,
as few as 56.8% or as many as 61% of U.S. citizens old enough to legally vote did so in the 2008
presidential election. The actual count of voters in the past presidential election was 132 million, but
there were over 80 million eligible voters who did not vote.
Could there be a similar outcome in our November election? More specifically, is it possible that 80
million voters or more (as in 2008) will again forego this opportunity to cast a ballot in the 2012
presidential election? Just imagine the affect of 80 million potential votes from legal, eligible voters
who need only to be encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.
If there is a chance you may choose not to vote in November, and if 2008 is any indicator of possible
voter turnout for 2012, you could be part of a substantial number of eligible, non-voting individuals.
Collectively you could represent 39 – 44% of eligible, non-voting individuals nationwide. However, your
voices should be heard along with the other 56 – 61% who are hopefully already planning to vote. Even
though your political views may not match your neighbors’ views or the views expressed by the media, a
vote from you and others like you could have a dramatic affect on the election outcome in November. Your
vote is significant!
Our country is at a critical juncture, and its future is in your hands. That future depends on your vote.
Mark your calendar today and be resolute in exercising your right to vote. Do it.
Elsie Newman
Bowling Green