Despite my apprehensions in our current political sphere, voting down the ballot ensures my voice is heard on a national and local scale. As a liberal New York resident, I can help elect members of my local government; otherwise, the principles of democracy are erased.
I have always been politically active. From participating in women’s rights protests at 13 and working on political campaigns — such as the 2022 Congressional campaign for Max Rose and the 2024 State Assembly campaign for Maria Ordoñez — I’ve had faith in our country, as unbelievable as that seems. At 16, I was working at polling stations, feeling empowered as I witnessed our democracy in action. I spent my day looking at people with grins spread across their faces after they dropped their ballots in the bin. Since then, I have been so excited to vote; yet, my stance has drastically changed over the past year.
Then I began thinking: Why did I want to vote in the first place? It is not just about picking a candidate; voting is about standing up for the issues that truly matter to me.
As a first-time voter, I expected to feel exhilaration, pride and hope for the future of my country. However, our political landscape has been marred by decisive rhetoric and seemingly insurmountable challenges this past year — at a glance, the candidate I wanted to vote for in the 2024 presidential election became too old to even form a proper sentence, and my other option is a convicted felon with questionable morals.
Ultimately, I have a question: Will my vote truly make a difference?
First-time voting is a rite of passage, a step into the adult world where my voice finally matters. But it feels like I am drowning in a sea of conflicting information, political jargon and endless debate on whether my vote truly matters. I quickly found myself wondering if I should even bother. After all, who was I to think that one vote could change anything?
Then I began thinking: Why did I want to vote in the first place? It is not just about picking a candidate; voting is about standing up for the issues that truly matter to me — from a woman’s right to autonomy to ensuring every child has the right to an education. These are merely examples of what I care about, and I know that by not voting I would be giving up my chance to have a say in how those policies are addressed.
I also thought about the people who fought so hard for the right to vote, such as Fannie Lou Hamer, who founded the Freedom Democratic Party at the 1946 Democratic National Committee, and Alice Paul, who authored the Equal Rights Amendment. These figures are a small part of the many people who faced more obstacles than I ever will.
I come from a place of privilege by taking voting power for granted. The impact of a simple vote has brought candidates such as former President Franklin D. Roosevelt into office, who introduced the lifesaving Food Stamps program. Also, former New York City Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia, who founded the New York City Housing Authority to help alleviate the severe housing crisis. These initiatives have improved the quality of life for millions of people, and it is essential that these programs continue to thrive. We can only ensure the continued success of these vital programs through our votes.
I realize voting is not just a right; it is a responsibility. If I don’t use my voice, I will be letting down the founders of our democracy. Here’s the truth: your vote matters. It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that one person’s vote won’t change anything, but history has shown time and again that elections can be decided by the slimmest of margins. How else can we enact real change?
Being a first-time voter is a unique opportunity. It’s a chance to make your mark on the world and to stand up for the issues that matter to you. Your vote is your way of saying, “I care about this, and I want to see change.” Your vote isn’t just a number; it’s a statement of your values, beliefs and vision for the future.
I understand if you’re unsure about voting for the first time, but don’t let those feelings turn into apathy. The system isn’t perfect, but it won’t change unless we change it. By voting, you contribute to the collective voice shaping our future. Every vote counts, and so does yours.
Make sure you check your voter registration status at vote.gov.