What To Consider Before Voting

Voting on election day is crucial whether it's voting in a city mayor or a country leader. As a citizen, you have an opportunity to contribute your opinion to your government's biggest decisions. To exercise the right to vote is a privilege that should not be taken lightly.

With that said, many people find themselves confused about who to vote for, or they've waited so long to register to vote that they think it's too late.

When election day approaches, don't be left in the dark without a say. Here are some steps to follow to make your voice count:

Register - Don't be embarrassed if you're not registered to vote. There's no time like the present and if you care enough to research your options, you care enough to express your interest in who is running your country. Call your town municipality, city hall, or look up registration online and find out how you can register as soon as possible.

Study the candidates - Read the newspaper, watch the news, look up the election campaigns online. Learn the names of the candidates and what they represent. Try to have an objective perspective if you've tended to slant your political opinion in a particular direction.

Know the issues - What issues are the predominant topics of conversation lately? Which issues do you feel affect your day to day life the most? Do your research and find out everything from taxes to health care. Make an informed decision rather than going along with the majority.

Ask questions - Ask around, find out what people are saying and how the candidates have influenced popular opinion.

Have proper identification - Update all current contact information and ID so that you can sign a ballot without any complications.

Courtney Gilmour
		About the author:
		Courtney is a published writer, stand-up comic, and shameless Internet enthusiast. She holds a double bachelors degree in English Literature and Communication Media Studies, specializing in semiotic theory, however she doesn't get Shakespeare and has never won a game of Scrabble. Currently she lives in Toronto and works as a writer for WOMAN.CA.
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