Transparency has been a key issue in local politics this year. Many voters have pushed for greater access to official meetings through modern technology. Concern for openness also fueled widespread opposition to the Legislature’s effort to place new constraints on the Open Public Records Act.
We have not won every battle for open government, but we could win more of them by showing our resolve to be active, informed and involved citizens. The best way to do that is to show up at the polls, to vote, and to care about the issues – not just the party labels candidates wear. In other words, exercise the vote that so many before us endured hardship to protect.
An important election is coming up in a couple of weeks. New Jersey holds its gubernatorial election in an off-year from the presidential race, allowing voters to focus on state and local concerns. We have the opportunity to cast our votes wisely for the individual we believe is best suited to lead the state for the next four years.
Unfortunately, too many of us find our time too valuable – or our schedules too busy – to bother voting. “What difference will it make?” we ask. “Things will happen the same whether I vote or not.”
But voting today has never been easier. You can vote by mail, vote early, vote on Election Day, or vote absentee if you’ll be away. None of these options takes much time. Voting by mail might take 15 minutes, maybe a few more if you’re new to the process.
That thinking – that “my vote doesn’t matter” – led to only 52% of Cape May County’s registered voters casting ballots in 2021. A little over half. One out of every two eligible citizens didn’t bother. That was the last gubernatorial race, between incumbent Phil Murphy and challenger Jack Ciattarelli.
The irony, of course, is that when people complain about government, they all act as though they voted. Half of them didn’t.
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Half of Cape May County didn’t vote – yet everyone complains.
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“Throw the bum out!” some say. The answer: You had your chance.
All elections are important, but this one carries extra weight. The issues are many – from energy policy and health care to affordability and housing, from state budget deficits to education performance, from environmental regulations to vaccine protocols. Which issues matter most depends on your circumstances, but there’s no way some of them aren’t vital to your well-being.
Become informed. Take the time. Both candidates have websites explaining their positions. Both have participated in debates. Both have spent enormous sums in what is shaping up to be the most expensive race for governor in New Jersey’s history – following the most expensive primary the state has ever seen.
Check out what they’re saying. Too many voters go to the polls without understanding the issues. Too many vote straight party tickets, regardless of where the candidates stand. It’s another way we dishonor the vote – and forfeit the right to complain about government.
There’s still time before Election Day. Make the effort to understand the issues that matter to you. Make the effort to vote, if you haven’t already. Reinforce your right to participate – with your vote.
It really does matter.
Quotes From the Bible
“If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.” – James 4:17
