Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Voting Day: November 6, 2012



Today is a big day for the U.S.A.  We will soon discover who will lead our Country for the next four years.  This day really makes me reflect because not too long ago many segments of the population were unable to cast a vote.  It bothers me when people say that voting does not matter or my vote won't make a difference.  Some of the cynicism likely comes from the notion that all politicians are dishonest.  Therefore, it really does not matter who wins the election.  I disagree, wholeheartedly.  Every candidate is different.  That said, it is difficult to notice inconsistencies and outright misrepresentations if you are uninformed.  Inform yourself and vote.

I have been following this election very closely for some personal reasons.  According to most voting prognosticators, this election will be very close.  In fact, I have even heard that a winner may not be announced tonight for various reasons.  One reason is that in some key battleground states, recounts may be required to ensure that all votes were properly counted.  There may also be election challenges by either or both of the candidates that could prolong the results.  I have also been hearing that people who are posting pictures of their voting ballots on social media sites have actually invalidated their results.  I am not sure if this is true, but I did take the time to research the relevant statute in North Carolina, which is N.C. Gen. Stat. 163-166.3, and it reads: (c) Photographing Voted Ballot Prohibited. No person shall photograph, videotape, or otherwise record the image of a voted official ballot for any purpose not otherwise permitted under law. (2001-460, s. 3; 2005-428, s. 1(b); 2007-391, s. 23; 2008-187, s. 33(a).)  Because people freely snap pictures of almost anything, this may potentially become an interesting litigated issue.

Exercise your right to vote.


Peace

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