VOTE: Little interest can go a long way

It may seem like one vote is not important. But if you dig a little deeper you can see how one vote can make a difference.

Very few people take the time and energy to vote without knowing anything about what they are voting for. So, if a person is inclined to vote, they are more likely to look for information.

The act of looking for information frequently involves other people who might be influenced by your quest.

Maybe you ask a friend or co-worker about a candidate or proposal.

Maybe you have a discussion at lunch.

Maybe someone else is with you, or someone nearby overhears your discussion.

Maybe seeing you learn and vote motivates others to learn and vote.

There are many scenarios where just being interested makes a difference, however small. But, small differences repeated many times can make a big difference. That’s how it should work.

Problem is, in today’s political climate many people are afraid to become involved in the discussion because of the vitriolic backlash they are likely to encounter. If you say something that others disagree with, you could be ostracized, fired, even prosecuted. You open yourself up for scrutiny, discrimination, harassment and personal attacks. Try to explain yourself and you just add fuel to the fire.

For that reason, the only people talking (or listening) are the extremists.

WALTER LITMAN

Coeur d’Alene