Editorial: Yes, there is an election this year and we still need to vote

This is just a simple reminder that it’s election season.

If you couldn’t tell by the hundreds of ads that are now plastered on television screens, street corners, in newspapers, and occupying radio spots, we do have an election this year. In fact, there are elections every year. Which means if we can vote, we should vote.

But I’m also encouraging people to do their own research this year. As I look at all of the candidates, it’s apparent that everything we desire from an ideal leader is split among two or more parties. We can like some proposals from one person and ideas of the other. Why can’t we get both?

Unfortunately, we still live in a stubborn society where compromise and understanding is still a trademark to our nonprogressive lives. We also have a government at all levels that tells us what we should and shouldn’t do without providing funds for it. And if we don’t do it, they’ll just make a law about it and try to enforce it.

I remember hearing stories on how people worked hard to earn money just to have the right to vote. Now, we’re living in a society where if we do vote, are we going to benefit from the winning candidate? The United States of America is dealt with nearly a 50/50 split during the presidential election, and I think the same is going to be for Virginia’s election for governor.

We still should vote, but when we do, whoever we choose must be held accountable. Even if the candidate we choose is not the winner, we still must hold the other one to the standards where they benefit all people, not just their party. A true leader works with all parties, all types of people, and at all levels.

When heading to the polls on Nov. 2, vote with your heart, vote with your head, and remember that you still have a part to play after you have voted.