Tuesday is election day, and although primary elections don’t often generate a large turnout, it’s still our duty to vote.

In addition to local races, statewide contests include electing Republican and Democrat candidates to square off in November for the seats being vacated by U.S. Senator Pat Toomey, a Republican who chose not to seek re-election, and Gov. Tom Wolf, a Democrat who cannot seek reelection due to term limits.

Local races include state House 8th, 11th and 12th districts, and the Democratic primary for the 16th Congressional District.

Voter turnout in Butler County for the May 2021 primary was 28%. Statewide, the turnout was even lower, with around 22% of the 8.5 million Pennsylvanians registered casting ballots. Although county numbers were low, it was significantly higher than what county solicitor Wil White expected. He had expected 15% to 20% voter turnout.

Millions of Americans can vote and yet choose not to. Why not?

Their reasons are vast: Some are apathetic or too busy. Others don’t like their choices, they don’t think their voice matters, they think the system is corrupt or they don’t think they know enough about the candidates and issues to vote.

Studies show the unregistered are more likely to say they do not vote because they dislike politics or believe voting will not make a difference, while people who are registered but vote infrequently say they do not vote more often because they are not informed enough about the candidates or issues.

Whether you believe it or not, your vote does matter, and it can make a difference.

In some countries it is against the law not to vote. For instance, those who decline to vote in Australia face a fine.

Take some time today to research the candidates and issues on Tuesday’s ballot. Find out who they are and what they stand for. But most importantly, vote Tuesday. It’s your right and duty to do so.

— JGG