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MAIN
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A Joint Project of the Maine
Association of Interdependent Neighborhoods |
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Volume 8 No. 3 |
September 2004 |
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MAIN
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A Joint Project of the Maine
Association of Interdependent Neighborhoods |
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Volume 8 No. 3 |
September 2004 |
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Cast A Vote You Can Live By
Guest Column by MAIN Vice President Russ AndersonDear Friend:
We all have something at stake in the upcoming November election when we will choose national, state and local leaders. Some may not think that voting is important, instead believing that it really doesn’t matter who gets elected, and that the common folk are just a number to the government. But it is surprising to see the look on someone’s face when I take time to explain the reality of what a vote can achieve.
For example, with the help of state legislators who value health care for all of Maine’s people, we were able to defeat the huge cuts in MaineCare services this past year. We were able to raise the minimum wage and get unemployment benefits for part-time workers with the support of legislators who understand the needs of low-income workers and their families.
Unfortunately, we’ve become skeptical because of the failures of elected officials, under-funded public programs, lopsided taxation laws, and corrupt Fortune 500 executives who only get a slap on the wrist. Our spirits are broken at the gas pumps, knowing full well we have no choice but to pay a gouging price for foreign crude oil. In my travels, I find that people believe the government and politics are a massive convoluted dance of money and power grabbing. It’s just how the game is played, right? Wrong.
It’s understandable that the rising cost of living takes priority in our lives over corporate and political corruption. Our individual strength to intervene and question the status quo has waned to a point where futility and hopelessness win every time. Is it any wonder that Americans are numb to their own personal value systems? When will we stand up and say, enough is enough?
Well, now is the perfect time my friend. Quality-of-life will only come back into vogue if “we the people” take charge. Our greatest power lies in electing people who will work for what we believe in. We must open our eyes and ears to the world and start to question the price of freedom and voice loudly the views of the common people. “We are the government!” Then and only then will we have a truly representative government acting on our behalf.
Begin your own campaign today. Decide to vote on November 2nd. Bring yourself up to speed by examining what is at stake for you, your children, and your community. Decide to take back what has been stolen from blue collar Americans. Take time to reflect on how just one person, you alone, can turn the tide of hope for the common people once and for all. Cast your vote! Get your family, friends and neighbors to vote. It doesn’t cost one red cent… it’s yours for the taking.
Russell Anderson, MAIN Vice President &
Midcoast MAIN coordinator
Waldoboro
