Not voting? The cost of not voting can be considerable. Statistics tell us Democrats vote a lot less than Republicans, a scary fact when considering the wildly divergent views and philosophies expressed in the upcoming presidential election.

Not voting also affects us locally. Take for example the recent La Plata Electric Association election in which many of us had the opportunity to vote for some more progressive candidates to end business as usual. Lack of voter turnout means the result of this election is fewer choices for renewable energy and more restrictive ties to Tri-State, the coal-fired supplier for LPEA and you.

As it is in many countries, voting should be a requirement, especially if we are going to address the ever more pressing matters of climate change, global conflicts and the overall cynicism that pervades in our society these days. Now more then ever it is time to leave the sidelines.

Be informed– and vote!

Nick Van Vonno

Durango