Like Abraham Lincoln said: "The ballot is stronger than the bullet." Irony aside, the statement is steeped in truth.
But voting is a two-step process. Now you have to pull the trigger by casting your ballot. Don't let long lines, foul weather or apathy stand in your way.
Thousands of Utahns have already exercised the franchise, casting absentee ballots in the mail, or appearing in person at early-voting stations across the state. Hopefully, it's a harbinger. The potential for a record turnout is high. And the stakes are even higher.
There's a lot on the line tomorrow. Amendments to the Utah Constitution. State Senate, state House and congressional races that will help determine the balance of power on Capitol Hill in Washington and Capitol Hill in Salt Lake City. Pocketbook issues, including propositions to improve Hogle Zoo and Tracy Aviary in Salt Lake County and preserve open space in Cache County.
Plus, Utahns will select a governor and a lieutenant governor. A treasurer, an auditor and an attorney general. A new State Board of Education.
And the nation, after an eternity of George Bush, will elect a new president. Whew! But who?
The polls indicate that GOP nominee John McCain has the Beehive State's electoral votes well in hand, but you never know. Republicans: You'll want to preserve that "reddest state in the nation" status. Democrats and independents: You can make miracles happen. But only if you vote.
Think your vote doesn't matter? Consider this: In 1977, the mayoral race in Ann Arbor, Mich., was decided by a single vote.
Looking for a local example? In 2006, after the recount, Utah House Speaker Greg Curtis prevailed by only 20 votes. You and a few of your friends made, or could have made, the difference.
The point of all this? Your vote truly does matter. You, through casting your ballot and encouraging like-minded people to do the same, are a vital part of the democratic process.
American drama critic and editor George Jean Nathan got it right: "Bad officials are the ones elected by good citizens who do not vote."
