Election Day

So this is the day where my political science background/fascination rears its head. I love election days! I wear red, white and blue, and dress the kids too. We fly our American flag. And we all go to the polling station together so that my children can witness democracy in action, and so that I can talk to them about how important it is to vote. And then I pop popcorn and watch the returns shows and political commentaries all evening. What a geek!

I am particularly interested in local elections, and saddened by the fact that so few people bother to vote in them. Of course, it is pathetic how few people bother to vote in Federal elections too... In Virginia, all local and state offices were decided during odd-numbered years, so the turnout was even lower. North Carolina includes their local and state positions on the Federal ballot, so I'll be interested to see if that impacts the percentage of voters on these local issues.

I find local politics so engaging because these are people who make decisions that will have such an immediate impact upon my family's lives. School board members, the sheriff, town council and planning commissioners, these folks determine how crowded the roads are, the quality of our childrens' education, our safety and so much more! And state and local judges make decisions that are just as important as those of the U.S. supreme court, just not as far reaching. So why wouldn't people want a say in who fills these offices?!?

So if you need me tonight, just look for me curled up on the sofa with the fireplace going, a bowl of popcorn in my lap, a glass of wine by my side, and the remote control in my hand! Happy Election Day!