Vote, let your voice be heard

To the editor:
Like many of you reading this, I will have work and personal responsibilities to take care of on Nov. 4. But I also will take the time to cast my ballot in the 2014 general election.
I can hear the list of reasons now for not doing the same.
I’m too busy.
We’re not electing a president or governor … why does it matter?
It doesn’t make a difference; they can’t get anything done in Washington or some other location anyway.
Reason number one just doesn’t cut it. It is not only a right, but a responsibility for each of us to help choose our government representatives with thoughtful consideration. It’s the foundation our country is built upon.
As for no national or state chief executive being on the ballot, let’s look at who is. Our nine members of the U.S. House. All 100 state representatives and 25 state senators. The state auditor, state treasurer and secretary of state. Not to mention the candidates who make so many important decisions at the local levels of government.
It’s simply true that all elections matter.
Finally, many people do feel that their vote doesn’t make a difference. Practically, it does. When I first ran for my local school board, I won by only 44 votes — one vote per precinct. But the unfortunate reality is that politics too often interferes with good public policy.
Not participating though, in effect, is giving up your opportunity to be part of the process.
Voting is only the first step.
Become educated on the issues. Communicate with your elected officials about your priorities. Learn how their votes impact your state and more specifically your workplace and job.
Whether you cast your ballot on Nov. 4 or do so through early voting options, let your voice be heard.
Kevin Brinegar
President and CEO
Indiana Chamber of Commerce