Why Voting Matters

The Wall Street Journal recently ran a poll asking how people plan to vote, and in a twist of irony worthy of a Shakespearean subplot, 9% of respondents "voted" for "I won't be voting." Ah, the elegance of participating in a poll to declare your intention not to participate.

Voting is a fundamental right and responsibility, significantly impacting individuals and society. When people choose not to vote, they often overlook the collective power of voters and the far-reaching consequences of non-participation in elections. This decision can profoundly affect the policies and laws that govern our lives.

Here are key reasons why opting out of voting can be detrimental:

1. Voting Shapes Policies and Laws: Elections determine who decides on essential policies like education, healthcare, the economy, social justice, and the environment. By not voting, people forfeit their say in these critical areas, allowing others to shape decisions that directly affect them. Your vote is not just a right; it's a responsibility that can shape the future.
2. Democratic Duty: Voting is not just a right; it's a cornerstone of democracy. It ensures that power rests with the people, not just the privileged few. Opting out of voting weakens the democratic system, reducing its representativeness and accountability.
3. Silent Endorsement: Choosing not to vote is still a choice. It can act as a silent endorsement of the status quo, allowing outcomes to be decided by a smaller, more motivated group. This can result in a less representative government that doesn’t reflect the needs or values of the broader population.
4. Disenfranchised Groups: Many groups—such as women, people of colour, and marginalised communities—have historically fought for the right to vote. Not voting undermines the struggles and sacrifices to secure this right and can disproportionately harm these groups by reducing their political influence.
5. Civic Engagement and Accountability: Voting fosters civic responsibility and holds governments accountable. When citizens vote, elected officials know they are being watched and held responsible for their decisions. A disengaged electorate makes it easier for politicians to act without regard for the public's best interests.
6. Every Vote Counts: Elections are often decided by small margins. Every vote can make a difference; collective voter turnout shapes a country's future.

Ultimately, voting isn’t just about individual interests; it’s a collective action that defines the future of communities, regions, and nations. By participating, people exercise their voice, hold leaders accountable, and push for change. Ignoring this opportunity leaves critical decisions in the hands of others who may not share the same values or priorities.

What happens in U.S. elections has ripple effects worldwide. While voting is mandatory in Australia, the United States operates under a voluntary system, yet its global influence makes American elections consequential internationally. Here’s why U.S. elections matter globally:

• Global Economy and Trade: As the world’s largest economy, U.S. economic policies affect international markets, trade agreements, and global financial stability. Decisions made by U.S. leaders, such as trade tariffs or regulations, can directly impact other countries' economies.
• Foreign Policy and International Relations: The U.S. is critical in global diplomacy, peacekeeping, and conflict resolution. Changes in U.S. foreign policy can influence everything from international military engagements to climate agreements.
• Climate Policy: The U.S. contributes significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions. Its stance on climate change impacts international efforts to address environmental challenges. Whether the U.S. engages in or withdraws from global agreements (e.g., the Paris Agreement) can significantly affect the global fight against climate change.
• Technological and Cultural Influence: U.S. companies dominate the global technology and media industries. U.S. policies on data privacy, innovation, and cultural trends impact technology markets and societal values worldwide.
• Military and Defence: The U.S. has a vast global military presence and numerous alliances that shape global security dynamics. Changes in U.S. defence policies or international alliances affect global security, including Australia's defence relationships.
• Global Health Initiatives: The U.S. is a key contributor to global health funding and initiatives addressing diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, and COVID-19. U.S. decisions on public health funding have widespread effects on global health outcomes.
• Immigration and Human Rights: U.S. policies on immigration and human rights influence global refugee flows and set precedents for other countries. Changes in U.S. policies can impact international attitudes toward migration and asylum seekers.
• Global Financial Markets: As the U.S. dollar is the world’s primary reserve currency, decisions by the U.S. Federal Reserve influence global interest rates and financial markets. U.S. financial regulations have the power to trigger fluctuations worldwide.

The upcoming U.S. elections have far-reaching consequences, not only for American citizens but also for countries and people worldwide. Voting in U.S. elections is a powerful tool for shaping global politics, economics, and security.

The Power of Voting

If you’re concerned about issues like affordable healthcare or climate change, your vote is the most powerful way to influence the future. Voting isn’t just about electing leaders—it’s about shaping the future of your family, community, and nation. Leaders' policies will impact jobs, education, and public safety. Why leave those decisions to others?

Many believe their single vote doesn’t matter, but history shows that razor-thin margins often decide elections. Figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Susan B. Anthony fought for the right to vote, and honouring their legacy means exercising that right today.

The future is in your hands. Take ten minutes to vote—your voice, power, and right. Every vote is a building block in the foundation of democracy, and every election shapes the future of the U.S. and the world. One vote can - and often does - change everything.