Does voting matter

 

Many people often decide not to vote because they think that one vote is not going to make a difference. If everyone had this mentality, though, democracy would break down completely. It is important that all eligible voters cast their vote so that the will of the people is accurately reflected.  To vote is a way of expressing an opinion. Voting definitely does matter, especially with respect to certain groups or types of voters. For example, since a very high percentage of senior citizens vote in elections, candidates or elected official make sure to satisfy the interests of this group in order to obtain their vote. This is why there is a focus on social security during election times. Senior citizens are rewarded for voting because their vote is so important to the candidates.  Although one vote may not make a difference, by banding together as a group, one can see real results.  There are many groups out there who are not getting any attention simply because they are not voting.  Elected officials do not try to satisfy their interests because it will not really help them to be re-elected. One example of this occurring is with people who have disabilities. Since it is difficult for these people to make it to the polls, they vote in much fewer numbers than other groups.  Consequently, politicians do not listen to their problems. There are over thirty five million eligible voters who have disabilities, however, so they could potentially have a large impact on elections if they voted together. Politicians would have to start listening to and helping this group if they want to win elections. As you can see, if people will simply work together and commit themselves, voting can have a large impact.