Preston Xanthopoulos: Vote Nov. 8
Did you set your clock back this Sunday morning? I don’t think we should change our clocks anymore. It's unnecessary and annoying. That’s the most controversial thing I’m going to say ahead of Tuesday’s election. I just hope, everyone who is eligible, votes.
While in a Presidential year there tends to be a voter turnout of over 70%, although, 2020 had the highest voter turnout ever at 76% in New Hampshire, mid-term elections tend to be more quiet. Granite Staters are more involved than the national average, but only about 60% of registered voters here cast a ballot in 2018. That number was just above 50% in 2014. (Interestingly, nationally, 2014 was the lowest voter turnout recorded. What was going on that year that made so many stay home?)
I don't understand the the lackluster turnout in an election. I mean, 76% in a Presidential year is really high, yet makes me wonder how 24% of us, didn't think voting for something as significant as President of the United States of America is worth our time or effort. In America, it is a right to vote; however, I also consider it a duty.
Do you remember the Iraq elections from 2005? I do. I couldn't tell you who was running for what or who won. But, I remember the images sent around the world of Iraqis, particularly women, holding up their purple-ink-dipped fingers, after having voted in the nation’s very first national and free election. The whole dipping your finger in ink to show you’ve already voted, may seem primitive, but it also seems a pretty effective form of "election integrity" for those concerned about that. Although, I'd probably prefer pink.
Anyway, the joy and absolute pride, the feel of freedom spread across the faces of those who had the right to cast a vote for the first time. I was disappointed to see in the most recent elections, while people still were photographed with the purple finger, women's faces were no longer able to be seen. I believe women's rights, are human rights, even in other countries.
While in the Iraq election only about 60% turned out, it is presumed it was only that low because many in rural areas may not have even known about the election or had no way to access a polling location. That is not the problem in America, certainly not in New Hampshire. So, why are our turn-out numbers the same as Iraq circa 2005?
Vote. If you are 18, a U.S. citizen and a resident of New Hampshire, vote. If you are a resident of another state, vote there. Unless you are a felon in one of those states where felons can't vote. Which is unAmerican to me. If you've done the crime, you do your time, and your right to vote should be restored. In New Hampshire, if you are a convicted felon, you can vote, as long as you are no longer actually incarcerated. Even if you are on parole or probation you can vote. Even if you moved to New Hampshire from a state that doesn't allow you to vote as a felon, you can vote here. Do it. Vote on November 8.
I’m excited for the now 18 year old in my home who will be voting November 8th for the first time. She's looked into candidates, asked questions and has made her own decisions. She will be same day registering— A process I completely support. That’s right, if you aren't registered to vote, you can register at the polls in New Hampshire on election day. If you are disenfranchised with the system, enfranchise yourself and change it.
If my pleas have not moved you to be part of the system, by voting on November 8th, look up “Purple Fingers 2005”. Perhaps the joyful tears of freedom, will help you change your mind.
Good luck, candidates and to all the campaign staffers out there, thank you for your hard work. On Wednesday, go take a nap.
Alicia Preston Xanthopoulos is a political consultant and member of the media. She’s a native of Hampton Beach where she lives with her family and three poodles. Write to her at PrestonPerspective@gmail.com.
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Preston Xanthopoulos: Vote Nov. 8
