Your Vote: Great Power and Responsibility

by Maria S. Salinas

The November election is weeks away and candidates are in full campaign mode. TV, radio, social media; all forums of communication will be flooded with candidate messages. On top of that, the November ballot will include both state and local measures.

Navigating the ballot will take effort on our part to do our homework in understanding the positions and agendas of those seeking our vote. We have great power with our vote, but we also have a great responsibility to be informed and understand the ballot.

The Chamber supports candidates who understand their role as public servants and are good stewards of the resources they will oversee. Voters expect a good governance mindset which is inclusive of all communities.

This November, voters in the City of Los Angeles will elect a significant number of elected officials. The same is true at the state and federal levels. With so much unprecedented change in elected leadership, we should take the time to study the ballot closely, understand the issues, and learn the positions of all candidates. Those we elect in November will shape policy for the next decade, so we have a tremendous responsibility in our hands. We can not afford to standby.

With only 32% of the voters casting ballots in the June primary election statewide and 28% in L.A. County, one of the lowest turnouts in the past 20 years. It is critical to get engaged in this election and be informed. Be ready to use your power on November 8th.