This article was inspired by "#ImWithHer, But Just Barely" by Odyssey writer, Veronica Faison. (http://theodysseyonline.com/stetson/im-with-her-bu...)
I have dreamed of this day since 2008. Ever since Obama was voted in as the new United States president, I couldn’t wait until my opportunity to vote and make a difference in my country. I wanted to research the candidates, watch the debates, and fall in love with a candidate’s views and vote with pride.
As I’m researching candidates, I stumbled across another Odyssey article titled “#ImWithHer, But Just Barely." The writer discusses her excitement to vote, but she felt the need to settle on the candidate because no better options were available. I must say that I’m not extremely thrilled with my options either. My generation is so excited to vote, so why are we being forced to settle?
I’ve been so excited for this day for a long time. I’ve been watching the debates and following the news in hopes of suddenly falling in love with a candidate or even their views. It’s frustrating and scary that the important elections are approaching and I still have no idea.
On a different note, I would definitely say I’m a feminist. However, at this moment, one fact that is certain is I will not be voting for Hillary. I believe there are better options than her, but most women snap at me and ask how can I not vote for Hillary? All women should vote for Hilary or you aren’t a feminist!
Let me clarify: I love the idea of a woman in the White House. It’s empowering and such an amazing event for United States history. I’m all for rooting for the right woman to be in the White House. I just believe there are better options than Hillary right now. If I were able to vote in 2008, I’m about 90 percent certain she would have been my go-to! Now that her course has ran and I’m more invested in her thoughts, I decided I will not be voting for her this fall.
I don’t necessarily want this post to be all about politics (but make sure you’re informed on the candidate’s platforms and vote!) because I also want to focus on having your own voice and using this election as your starting point. America has the freedom of speech and right to vote, so why do you feel you have to settle? Because America told you it’s this candidate or you can’t vote?
Use your rights and find a solution that works for you. Maybe you decided to vote for a candidate of the independent party. I’ll happily applaud you because even if I don’t agree, I know that’s the right choice for you, which is what America is all about: choices!
So whether you vote for Trump, Sanders, a Joe Blow from an independent party, or even Clinton, remember you have the right to have your voice be heard!
