Vote like your life depends on it, because it does

The gubernatorial election of Texas is weeks away, and it’s time to vote for the future of Texas. It is important to remember why we vote. Voting is the most important thing a U.S. citizen can do. It is a civic duty. When we vote, we are collectively picking someone to govern and lead us for several years. And with many of those elected into office serving multiple consecutive terms, they could govern us for decades. Choosing who you want to lead the state and country is a privilege.

Before anything, individuals need to find out what elections are coming up and who is running. This is a necessary step as we want to vote for someone who has the same ideas and values as us since they will be the ones to represent us. Voting is a key issue in the way people live. Not only does it affect the people who vote, it also affects their community.

Texas now faces a tight gubernatorial election with incumbent Greg Abbott and former U.S. Representative Beto O’Rourke. An election most in the state perceive as life changing.

Following the Uvalde school shooting and the almost total abortion ban in the state, Texans are voicing their opinions more than ever, in what some individuals believe to be a life or death election year.

It is no surprise to see that presidential elections are the ones to draw the most attention. While it is great that individuals are going out and voting for whom they want as president, they also need to be on the lookout for midterm and other local elections. Every election matters.

Though you may feel comfortable backing your political party, blind party loyalty should never dictate the candidate for whom you vote. Vote for the candidate you believe will make change. Vote for a candidate you think Texas deserves to have.

Your vote counts. Your vote is just as equal as everyone else’s.

As a college student it’s important to pay attention to your election cycles; we are the future and who we elect will impact our generation as we graduate and move into the job market.

If you wish to seek change, vote. Your vote is your voice.