U.S. 2022 Midterm Elections: Does Voting Actually Matter?
Written By: London Allen | November 10, 2022
Recently, there has been a lot of conversation surrounding the U.S. 2022 midterm elections. Many people have various opinions concerning voting in the U.S. because of the unfortunate history that voting and politics have in this country. Still, Tuesday, November 2, millions of people voted in the state elections, and anxiously waited to hear the results. Still, people choose not to vote in elections for various reasons and the same is true for individuals choosing to vote. One infamous argument for advocates of either opinion, especially after the 2020 election, is based on the question: does voting actually matter?
Some may argue: Yes, voting matters or voting might matter. These people will probably vote if they can.
Others may argue: No, voting doesn’t matter or probably doesn’t. These individuals probably won’t vote.
One could say, those who vote are ignorantly patriotic or have a false sense of belief in the American government. You could also say that people who don’t vote are privileged or ignorant, especially when there are topics as important as people having agency over their own bodies. One the other hand, if everyone could recognize the similarities in dissatisfaction— and frustration—with the U.S. government, people might join hands, and sing kumbaya. There are so many varying viewpoints that this year, I asked several people why they choose to or choose not to vote. Here’s what they said.
WHY AREN’T PEOPLE VOTING?
I anonymously asked several people who didn’t vote in the 2022 midterm elections, why not? One respondent said:
A) [Voting] is a way to legitimize our current bad government. B) There's only so long the left can run on promises they don't see through.
It is completely understandable why some individuals choose not to vote. According to NPR, the majority of individuals who did not participate in recent presidential elections felt that “voting has little impact on their lives, and that it won't change how the country is run.” This is the same pattern seen in this election and this mindset is often held by members of marginalized or historically underrepresented groups. The NPR article reports that, “In particular, Latino groups say that Latinos have a lower participation rate because of a historical lack of thoughtful and sustained engagement from campaigns and lawmakers alike.”
WHY ARE PEOPLE VOTING?
I anonymously asked several people who did vote in the 2022 midterm elections, why? One respondent said:
I feel like it’s part of my duty to vote for my local officials, because the way I see it, I am impacted most directly by my local officials. Change starts at the local level, and I feel responsible for helping create that change. I also live in a very red state that does not prioritize the rights of women, so I feel like voting for me is also an effort to protect myself and do my best to get officials in office that will support me as a woman.
Choosing to vote in the 2022 midterm elections, as described by one New York Times article, can be considered “a small act of faith.” From corruption to systemic oppression, it has been difficult for many to put their trust in government elections. However, many vote out of the belief that the possible impact is too great to leave it to chance. Many important issues appear on the ballot. Choices are made not just nationally, but locally for many individuals and it is important that they have a say.
So, does voting matter? No matter what, I personally find it does, but after hearing everyone’s opinions, I’d recommend everyone do what aligns best with their beliefs for them to see the political changes they desire. I recognize the failures of the government, and also recognize the possible successes which also come in the form of choosing what candidate might do the least amount of damage. Whether you believe in taking action through voting or not, being active in a mission that strives for decent rights for all is what’s most important.
