Vote Tuesday

Many have argued that this year's election is the most important in 40 years. I tend to agree.
Each presidential election is important, and every four years presents a different set of national challenges.
But this year, the challenges are incredible. What we do on Tuesday will change our nation's course.
This year it is simply too important to stay home. It is vital to vote.
Recently, a Pittsburg State University student told me her friends told her that her vote didn't count. The rationale being that Kansas historically votes Republican so the outcome was supposedly predetermined.
I couldn't disagree more.
Based on voter registration activity and advance voting results, it is almost certain that there has never been an election where so many Americans have participated. Regardless of who you favor, McCain's winning Kansas is not guaranteed. Many of us believe the race will be closer than expected. And the presidential race is far from the only one on the ballot.
To that college student, I noted that the local races directly affect her. A vote in the Kansas Senate and state House of Representatives races is a vote that potentially changes funding and tuition for PSU. A vote in the U.S. House of Representatives race may change tax rates, funding for a four-lane highway and health care policies. A vote in the Crawford County Attorney race may change how criminals are prosecuted. A vote in the U.S. Senate race can alter which Supreme Court appointees are confirmed and how foreign policy is applied.
It is important, and a couple of these races may come down to a handful of votes.
Please don't be discouraged by national reports of long lines. Our county clerk's office has been preparing for record turnout. Every possible effort is being made to ensure efficiency, and I would point you to a letter from Don Pyle in today's edition that contains polling information.
Your vote is a vote for our future. Please cast your ballot.

Stephen Wade, for The Morning Sun