It’s hard not to talk politics, especially when we are in budget season and of course the 2020 elections which are just around the corner.
For me, I’ve always enjoyed the light-hearted debate here and there but always remembered the old adage of, “you don’t talk about politics or religion.”
In saying that I’m going to break one of the rules. In my twenties I never really took a huge interest in politics, local or federal; for two reasons, the first I was naive and the second I didn’t understand how it really affected me.
But as I got older, I began to better understand my role as a voter because I started asking questions. Questions to politicians and people I knew who followed politics closely. Because of this I began to understand that the old adage was wrong in today’s society.
As society evolves and politicians become more present on social media, I believe it is very important for every citizen in every country to know what their representatives stand for. From local government all the way to federal. I also believe that ‘Utopia’ will never exist, but your voice in open forums and voting polls make a huge difference and can contribute to a near Utopian society.
What I mean is, you don’t have to engage all day every day in political discussions, nor do you have to attend every rally or city council meeting. But you do have to show an interest and ask questions when you are not sure. I also believe strongly that it is your responsibility to ensure that you aren’t listening to the ‘gossip’ rather you do your best to get the news directly from the horse’s mouth whether that be talking directly to the people or politicians involved, or attending a meeting or rally.
I have found since I began my career as a journalist, I was forced to ask more questions aloud then just to friends or family. I found that the more I heard about an issue that I didn’t understand or fully agree with I asked more in depth questions because I figured if I didn’t understand it, how can I write about it for you to understand what was happening.
There have been two or three instances where I found myself sitting back and thinking, “wow, every vote will really count on this issue.” True enough it did.
As we begin to get down to the wire on local budgets being approved here in Lamar County, whether you agree with the decisions or not that our elected officials make. Remember, as a citizen you do have the right to ask questions. There are also opportunities to attend meetings that you can address your elected officials and query a decision that is yet to be made, and most importantly they will listen to you.
It is rare to find an elected official who will not listen. They may not agree with you, but they do listen to you. This is where you can ask questions and put forth your queries. And believe it or not sometimes your question or possible solution to an issue could be the reason an issue gets resolved in a positive manner.
As we head into the election season for next year, don’t be afraid to engage with those that are running. Don’t be afraid to ask the questions that will directly affect you and your family.
Times have changed, and it’s time that we all take a more proactive approach in our community and ensure we are voting for those that will do the best they can for each of us.
Erin Jusseaume – Editor
