The People Shutdown

What is wrong with the United States Federal Government? This body which has never been perfect seems to be getting worse and worse by the day. We are currently in a government shutdown. This is over the Affordable Healthcare Act. One side wants to ensure it is not funded and will fund very little to make its point. The other side wants it funded and seems to have the same attitude towards funding other things. 

So what is the cause of this problem? Most blame the politicians themselves. Some blame the 24 hour news media. Others blame the rich while others blame the poor. I blame us, the people. 

We have become lazy when it comes to politics. Most will say, "I hate politics and want nothing to do with it." Others thinks it is boring. Some just have no faith that the system can be changed. This has led to many not participating. As for those who do participate, they do so every four years and forget about the rest of the time. They do not vote in non-presidential elections. When they do vote in presidential elections, they choose the R or the D. 

Want to see a change in our government? It is a three part solution. 

First, start voting in state and local elections. I understand they are not glamorous. Who cares who becomes the next comptroller, right? These elections are a way to start getting good folks involved and recognized in the political game. You know way more about Susan running for city council than you ever will about Obama or Cruz. 

Second, don't just wait for the presidential elections every four years. Vote in "off year" elections. Every two years we get to change the entire House and one-third of the Senate. This is a chance to send a message to politicians that is much louder than the latest Fox or MSNBC polls.

Third and what I think is most important, vote for the person, not the party. Even if it is a third party candidate. Many say that a third party vote is a wasted vote. I say voting for the lesser of two evils is still voting for evil and giving your say so to evil. Our government was designed to disperse power yet the parties have figured out how to consolidate most of it and share it. 

I understand that you may just be one voice and may not count very much but go out and make your small voice as loud as possible. I promise you that it will make a difference one day. While you may feel that politics is not your problem, you will find out that the loss of freedoms will be your children's problem.