The Write-In

We as Americans have the privilege of using the greatest form of government ... a democracy. We the people get to have a say in who is in charge of our country. This privilege is only worth it if we don't abuse the power.

I remember when we were studying government and elections in school when I first learned of the write-in candidate.

I have mixed feelings about write-in candidates. I understand that it can be a very powerful tool, why should you have to vote or one or the other? Why not somebody else? However, it is also a waste when somebody decided that they want to elect their dog Sergeant Scruffles for President of the United States.

This coming election is the first time that I can recall an individual running as a write-in candidate. I remember Ralph Nader was sort of trying, but this year, the write-in candidate for Bourbon County Sheriff has a legitimate chance at being competitive at the polls.

I hear it every time we have an election from somebody who tells me that they didn't want to vote for either of the candidates so the wrote in their dad, themselves, their dog, or their deceased grandmother. I would hate to be one of the people who has to go through all the write-in votes, I'm curious to see some of the creative answers.

Choosing to vote is a right and a privilege. If we abuse our rights, they will be taken way. Please vote responsibly.