Op-Ed by 10th District State Representative Terry Rogers
“Elections belong to the people. It’s their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.” – Abraham Lincoln
As we draw closer to election day, I’d like to take this opportunity to not just ask for your vote, but to explain to you why it means so much to me. I’m blessed to be unopposed as your State Representative this election year and you might think your vote doesn’t matter to me. Nothing could be further from the truth. The reality is that from a legal standpoint as long as I receive one vote I’ll win ( I did vote for myself and my wife also told me she voted for me! ), but that’s not what’s important. What matters is that your vote is a right and as an American you should exercise that right. But more than just being a right, voting is a privilege and an obligation.
Since our country was founded in 1776, over 1.5 million American soldiers have made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure that you can go to the ballot box and vote for the candidate of your choice. That’s something I don’t take lightly at all. I realize that when you vote, you are placing your trust and confidence in me to best represent your viewpoints, and that is an overwhelming and humbling responsibility. I’m grateful to you for that opportunity, and I’m ever mindful of the sacrifices made to give me that responsibility. However, in voting, along with other privileges, comes responsibility. There is a responsibility to educate yourself about the candidates and issues. Don’t just believe all the negative ads and campaign propaganda. Find out where the candidates stand on the issues important to you and make certain that they line up with how you view the issues. You may not always agree with them on everything, but by becoming better informed, you can ask the tough questions and walk out of the polling place know that you made the best decision possible. That’s a great feeling.
Locally, you will be voting on a SPLOST referendum that will have an impact on our county for the next six years. I think both sides have done a good job in explaining their perspective. I was especially pleased at the efforts made by both sides in holding public meetings to get their views out and let you know the pros and cons. Research the issues and then vote accordingly. Both pro and con sides are available for any questions you might have.
It is always my honor and privilege to represent the finest people in the state of Georgia. I’m here to serve you, so if I can ever be of any assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact me at 706–754 –0706 or t[email protected]. We are here to serve you.
Thank you for taking the time to vote, but more importantly thank you for being an informed voter. I’ll see you at the polls!
