If You Don’t Vote, Someone Else Signs the Check

Staying home does not stop Washington from making decisions. It only removes your voice from those decisions.

By Gregg Mele

Some people believe their vote will not matter. Others are frustrated with politics, disappointed in both parties, or too busy managing work and family to focus on an election.

Those feelings are understandable. But government does not pause when voters stay home.

Congress will still decide how much of your money to spend, how much debt to create, how immigration laws are enforced, whether law enforcement is supported, how America treats its allies, and how much control Washington exercises over healthcare and education.

The decisions will be made. The only question is who gets to make them.

Not Voting Is Not Neutral

A nonvote is not literally a vote for either candidate. But it does give greater influence to the people who show up.

If you stay home, the most organized and motivated voters will choose your representative. They will decide whether Washington receives more money, more authority, and fewer limits.

My opponent’s supporters understand what is at stake. They are prepared to vote for Medicare for All, tuition-free public college, student and medical debt cancellation, a stronger federal role in education, abolishing ICE, dismantling the Department of Homeland Security, and ending military support for Israel.

If you disagree with that agenda but do not vote, your silence will not stop it.

Your Vote Determines Who Holds the Pen

This election will affect more than one candidate or one political party. It will help determine:

• Whether taxes and federal spending continue to grow

• Whether the border is secured and immigration laws are enforced

• Whether police and first responders receive the support they need

• Whether America stands with Israel and supports defensive systems such as Iron Dome

• Whether healthcare remains centered on patients and doctors

• Whether parents or federal bureaucrats direct education

• Whether Washington is required to answer to taxpayers

These are not abstract political arguments. They affect your family, your community, and the country our children will inherit.

I Am Not Asking for a Blank Check

I am not asking anyone to vote blindly or simply follow a party label.

Check the facts. Compare the candidates. Examine the costs, the consequences, and who gains more power under each proposal. Then make an informed decision.

Voting is not an endorsement of everything government does. It is your opportunity to decide who will represent you and your right to hold that person accountable afterward.

When responsible voters stay home, they do not remove politics from their lives. They allow someone else to make political decisions for them.

Your name is already on the bill Washington will send.

Vote, and do not let someone else sign your name to a blank check.