Categories: News

Don’t Forget to Vote, Philadelphia!

If you haven’t already, you NEED to vote today!

A record number of people have registered this year, and a huge number voted in the primary.  However, regardless of the number of people who you see that say they’ve voted, your vote still matters.

My “voting history” began with my vote for Ross Perot (My dad brought me into the voting booth with him growing up, so I was able to cast a vote at age 9 and be a part of the process.) I’ve always voted in every election I could. 

I’ve attended a few political rallies, including last night for a Joe Biden rally in South Philly.  Mayor Nutter, Governor Ed Rendell, World Series champ Jimmy Rollins, and Jill & Joe Biden all spoke.  (The culmination for me was when I shook the next VP Joe’s hand!)  I studied political science at Penn State and once heard it was a rational choice to NOT vote.  But it isn’t a rational choice this time.    

If one person doesn’t vote, it really won’t make a difference to the overall outcome.  However, the numerous people today who decide NOT to vote can add up. Therefore, every vote matters because the race will be tight.  If you need further proof/explanation immediately watch the HBO movie “Recount” with Kevin Spacey about the 2000 elections.  (Or if you don’t have time to watch, I’ll be happy to give you a 5 minute synopsis.) 

The voting excitement is building today, so make sure to get to the polls.  We all have different reasons to vote.  Vote for change.  Vote for a cleaner environment.  Vote for the economy, healthcare, the military, or whatever reason that matters to you most.  But please, just Vote!

Posted by Julie

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia.

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