Why everyone needs to vote in the primary election

North Carolina is currently holding early voting for the primaries, but only until this Saturday the 29th. If you happen to miss early voting, you’ll still get another chance for the official North Carolina Democratic primary on Tuesday, March 3rd.

If you do have a free 10 minutes before Saturday, get to the polls and vote. Early voting is the perfect time to cast your vote because of how easy it has become. 

In a rush? Voting early means fewer people at the polls, so you’ll be in and out of there in no time. Busy schedule? Then you’ll probably also be busy on Tuesday, March 3rd – vote early so you don’t miss your chance. Not even registered? Fear not, during early voting you can register on-site, just bring an ID and proof of residence (a lease or bank statement would work).

Voting in the primaries is important. For one, it’ll help out your campaign big time. Political campaigns receive updates on who voted, so they know if their targeted voters have already cast their ballots (also a great way to get yourself off of campaign call lists). Think of voting early as a little donation to your favorite campaigns, so you can do your part without having to give cash.

Secondly, primary elections strengthen democracy. The ability to vote in primaries – and even the mere existence of primaries – is an incredible American privilege. Primary elections create healthy inter-party competition, which not only encourages, but forces political elites to be held accountable to a much broader and diverse group of citizens. With so many of the world’s countries turning to violence and corruption as a means for “choosing” candidates for seemingly democratic elections, the United States’ primary elections allow citizens to choose their candidates fairly, democratically, and safely (translation: your vote counts!).

Finally, voting feels good. I just got back from the Chapel of the Cross where I voted in the NC primary and I feel proud, productive, and a part of something bigger than myself. In my women’s history class right now, we’re learning about the suffragettes who were thrown in jail and horrifically force fed in their fight for women’s right to vote – so I felt pretty proud to get out there today and cast my ballot. By voting, you’re automatically part of the conversation and have tangibly helped the country take a step in the right direction (plus, now you can complain with a little more honor and integrity).

So don’t just sit around and hope we get lucky this year, vote because you’re truly lucky that you can.