Electing those in our government is a tremendous privilege, and is the reason the patriots fought for our independence. But for many, it can also be confusing and intimidating. After all, there are so many races; local, state, and federal. There are also many issues, not to mention the confusing campaign ads. We know that elections matter, but honestly, it all becomes a blur.
But we live in a great age, when information is available on any topic you desire to research, including elections. No matter what political party you vote with, no matter what your beliefs, it’s easy to find out which candidates will reflect your position.
So where do you start?
1. Outline your own beliefs – Are you for or against abortion? Do you favor small government? Do you want to see more action against terrorism? These, and many more issues, have already been decided by the candidates running for election. Make your list and find the candidates that most closely align with you.
2. Look up PACs (Political Action Committees) Many organizations have a PAC or at the least, a list of endorsed candidates. These candidates will reflect the opinions and beliefs of that organization. Check with organizations you trust and find out who they endorse.
Here are links to some organizations that I trust, and their voting recommendations. They are generally pro-family, pro-life, conservative Christian organizations.
My top picks Conservative Review and The Heritage Foundation.
Other groups:
Focus on the Family
Family Research Council
Texas Home School Coalition
Eagle Forum
American Family Association
National Right to Life
Home School Legal Defense
(Disclaimer: I made the above list in 2010, and since then I have had reason to disagree with some of these organizations. However, I leave the list for you to decide.)
Some non-partisan voter-information sites:
Project Vote Smart
On the Issues
League of Women Voters
3. Talk to Your Friends – You know who your like-minded friends are. Ask their opinions on candidates. But don’t just ask for a list. Ask them to tell you why they have chosen their candidates.
This is homework! Take it seriously. Once you have all the information above, create your own voter guide on paper. You can take it with you to the polling place. AND, if your friends ask for your input, you’ll be ready with an answer!
With all the information available, there is no reason not to go to the polls armed with the facts.
Exercise your right to vote. It’s one of the greatest American privileges!
Hi! I’m Nicki! Welcome to my blog! A little about me? I’m a 9th generation Texan living on a nine-acre homestead in North Texas with my husband and five children. I write about homeschooling, history, freedom, my faith, homesteading, reading, and quilting. If you want faith-based encouragement, be sure to follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and subscribe to my blog!
[…] written a post on being an informed voter: 3 Easy Steps to Being an Informed Voter. Go check it out. And vote your […]