OPINION: Do you feel like your vote counts?

By Ella Bumgardner, Marshall University

On Thursday, I walked into Drinko Library to vote in my very first presidential election. As I stood there filling in my ballot, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride in being old enough to make my own choice and vote for the 47^th president of the United States. 

Nov. 5, 2024, will mark the first presidential election many Marshall students will be able to cast a ballot, including myself. 

The realization I am old enough to contribute to the election of the next president of the United States is a terrifying yet rewarding feeling. I often forget that reaching adulthood comes with the responsibilities of being an adult, like voting. 

Voting is not just a responsibility, but a right we are given and should be grateful for as an opportunity to contribute to the future of our country.

Although we are contributing to an important matter, many residents of West Virginia feel like their vote does not count, as we live in a notoriously red state. 

Most of our state has been red since the 2000 election and remains red regardless of the way people decide to vote. 

Voting in a non-swing state may not feel as rewarding or exciting, but that does not make our choices and votes less valuable. 

If I decided to not vote, it would probably not affect the outcome of who our next president will be. Out of the (roughly) 1.2 million registered voters in West Virginia, my vote is a very small percentage of that. However, that does not mean I should not vote or that my vote does not matter.

Local elections tend to be closer calls, which results in our votes having a greater impact on the outcome. 

If everyone thinks their vote does not count, then change will never become a reality due to people being too apathetic, and no one would ever do their research or vote. 

According to the Harvard Institute of Politics, 56% of young Americans said they plan to “definitely” vote in the upcoming election; among registered voters, the number rises to 72%. 

A young generation of educated and dedicated voters have the power to make a great impact on society by participating in the general election. 

As a resident of West Virginia and a first-time voter, I have enjoyed educating myself and others while staying informed about the current issues and candidates in the election. Whether we live in Arizona or West Virginia, our vote still counts.