Take advantage of the chances to vote

This year presents many opportunities to exercise your civic duties and those opportunities begin in the very near future.

The year 2020 is an election year. When November rolls around, we will have races for the President of the United States, various State Representative and Senate seats and local spots.

But before the General Election, we decide who is on the ballot. This process begins with the Iowa Caucus on Feb. 3. This is the first step in nominating a Democratic candidate. That day puts Iowa in the national spotlight, as it is the first major contest to nominate a presidential candidate during primary season. Iowa’s caucuses are also unique, as they ditch the standard punch a ballot method of voting but are rather a gathering and discussion about why a candidate is preferred.

Following caucuses is the Primary Election on June 2. This is where the candidate field for all positions gets whittled down to the names who will be on the final ballot in November. In this election voters will vote for the candidate for each party, in each position they feel will best represent their respective party come November.

And finally, after what seems like years of political ads, we reach the General Election with the aforementioned races for President and many other leadership positions on a state, national and local level. Millions of voters will flock to polling stations to cast their vote.

Regardless of political leaning, Presidential Elections are an exercise of our freedoms as United States citizens. We are tasked with the vital role of choosing our leadership for the coming years.

Voting gives you a sense of responsibility. It’s easy to think, “My vote doesn’t matter, millions vote.” All votes count. All votes represent our freedom to choose and the gift we’ve been given to do so. Of course, voting rights also come with the understanding that you have the right not to vote as well.

Some may not vote because the process is too complicated, the time isn’t there on election day or other factors. Thankfully, resources exist to answer those questions. Visit the Franklin County Auditor’s webpage or the Iowa Secretary of State’s website for more information