Are You an Educated Voter?

As I write this, we’re at 18 days and counting down to Election Day in the United States. This year especially, it seems that every television channel, radio station, billboard and newspaper has a political message to share – and, most often, a face to put with the message! Everywhere we turn we’re inundated with political information, advertising, nay saying and finger pointing – it can be overwhelming. It’s campaign season in full swing! And – thank heavens – it’s almost over!

Often, one of the hardest things to do during an election year is determine exactly what the key issues are and where the candidates stand on them. At this point in the election process, many folks have tuned out the rhetoric and just want it to end. However, knowing the candidates and understanding their platforms and plans is one of the most important responsibilities that we have as business owners, employers, tax payers and citizens. We should consider if the candidate is honest, has high morals and lives them, and can be counted on to make the right decisions rather than the popular decisions. Will the candidate really work for his constituents or just for re-election?

As we move into the final days of the 2012 election campaign, I encourage you to get to know your candidates – regardless of party – at the local, state and national level. Take time to understand the important issues being discussed in your community, city and state that will impact your life, job and business. Pay attention to the national issues that will have bearing on you and your family, your job, your business and employees. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the candidates or their representatives. Get to know what their decisions may mean to you in the future so that you are casting an educated vote on November 6. And, encourage your employees to exercise their right to vote as well!

After all, one of the greatest freedoms we have as citizens of the United States of America is the right to cast our vote in favor of our personal beliefs and interests. And, one of our greatest responsibilities as a citizen is to understand the issues and the implications of the votes we cast.

Mimi Rainero Coles

Chairman, National Precast Concrete Association