Editorial - You don't HAVE to vote

The political season is now fully upon us, and with that comes the civic duty of all Americans to elect leaders and representatives with whom we share the same goals, opinions and dreams. Our forefathers have fought and died for our numerous rights, and it would be the most vile affront to their memory for the people of this great nation to sit idle while others make such important decisions for them. Everyone eligible needs to get out and vote this year... right?

Here's the short answer: no. While laws prohibit minors, felons, and those deemed by a court to be "mentally incapable" from voting, there is a sizable portion of our citizenry in Texas who shouldn't vote: stupid people.

Let me elaborate on this with an example: a man named Bubba registers to vote out of obligation not to seem un-patriotic in front of his co-workers. Although vaguely engaged in the political process, Bubba pays only passing attention to political debates. He skips through political reporting on TV and online, only focusing on major scandals and other issues which he may be caught in a discussion about later. In general, he learns very little about the issues at stake. The only thing Bubba has going for him is a faint association with one of the major political parties - most likely the party in favor by his colleagues and friends. So Election Day comes and Bubba heads to the polls, but with what? What is he really doing? There is no cause he supports. There is no underdog candidate, short on funds but long on character, in dire need of his support.

In simple terms, Bubba is blindly casting a vote - one which will help to shape the future of our state - based on the weakest of credentials. In many cases, this fictional character would vote for a candidate who would actually have a worse impact on the district than his opponent, but how could Bubba know? Without a working knowledge of the political system, as well as a basic overview of the candidates and their positions, Bubba's vote is much like a stray bullet: just as powerful as any other, but more likely to injure someone.