Yep, I'm A Voter, Too

Several of my fairly famous colleagues have disclosed they no longer vote as a way of maintaining their neutrality as journalists. I admire their objective, but I don't understand their reasoning.

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love my job. But it's a job. I wouldn't equate it with voting, which to me is my duty as a citizen, like paying the water bill.

I remember reading The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich as a young man and how surprised I was to learn the Nazis had used an election as a springboard to power. Had I lived in Germany then, I hope I could have voted against them. I wouldn't have wanted to be neutral on that one.

Besides, voting is just so much fun. As a reporter, I have to back up what I say with facts.

But I need give no reason, marshal no argument for my vote. Maybe I just don't like the candidate's attitude - reason enough to vote against him. Or maybe I think a candidate really is qualified - a good reason to vote for him.

It's my vote and I can exercise it any way I choose, but no candidate gets my vote unless I believe he or she deserves it.

We take voting so seriously at my house that my wife has instructed me not to tell even her who I vote for. She's afraid I'll disappoint her.

Oh ye of little faith. But isn't that the best part? We can tell everyone or no one.

So, go vote. It's good for the country and good for you. Makes you feel big and strong.