Change happens on every level.
It doesn’t come from one party, person or vote — the logic comes from much more than that.
Our system is about change. In fact, our system depends on it. But if you assume your vote won’t count because it’ll be outshone by 1,000 votes from the other side, you’re only hindering your cause.
This year’s election in South Carolina was historic for a multitude of reasons, from the number of African-American candidates to the outpour of support from young voters.
If you were looking for change, it’s within reach.
The only thing inhibiting that change is assumption. Assuming your party will lose only helps the party lose. Assuming your candidate will immediately concede will only fuel the concession flames. Sitting idly by doesn’t only hurt the values you support — it helps the opposition.
We’re not saying every USC student should register to vote in Richland County — that just wouldn’t be productive. And let’s face it: some of us are from states with races you just can’t pass up voting in. (Any North Carolinians in the house?)
But the fact is, you don’t need to vote in Richland County to foster change here. In fact, you don’t even need to be registered.
Understand the issues. Canvas. Make calls. Write letters. Convince others to join in your cause, whatever that cause may be. You don’t need to physically cast a ballot to make the difference you want to see. And if you’re pleased with the outcome, continue to fight for your cause.
One day, with a more inspired outlook by the opposition in South Carolina, there may be more of a fight to be had.
The gubernatorial election wasn’t a landslide, but the Associated Press still called it one minute after the polls closed. At the start of every election, everyone assumes South Carolina will go red. Maybe if there were more South Carolinians motivated to vote, going red wouldn’t be an assumption, but a possibility in a neck-and-neck battle.
It doesn’t matter who you were pulling for this time around. A candidate winning an election is equivalent to winning a battle.
Making a change is winning the war.