How voting sustains democracy

• Holds officials accountable. Voting is the primary way citizens can hold elected representatives accountable for their actions and decisions. It allows the public to reward or punish politicians for their performance, which incentivizes them to act in the public's best interest.

• Influences policies. Elections determine who holds political power, and these officials shape policies on critical issues such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and the economy. By casting a ballot, you help steer the direction of these policies.

• Ensures representative government. When citizens do not vote, elected officials are more likely to prioritize the interests of those who do. Higher voter turnout creates a government that is more representative of the entire population's will, ensuring that a broader range of interests and views are considered.

• Centers marginalized voices. Historically, many groups, including women, people of color, and those with disabilities, were denied the right to vote. Exercising the right to vote today is a way to honor those who fought for it and ensures that the needs of marginalized communities are not ignored.

• Legitimizes the government. Elections are the agreed-upon procedure for legitimizing governments and putting those in power who create and enforce laws. This participation helps maintain a stable and functioning society under the social contract. 

The collective responsibility to vote

While a single vote rarely decides an election, the collective act of voting is powerful and essential for a healthy democracy. Philosopher Jason Brennan argues that citizens have a duty to avoid voting carelessly, as a collectively uninformed electorate can lead to bad governance. 

The "free-rider" problem is another argument for voting as a collective duty. If one person decides not to vote, it has no major impact, but if everyone decides not to vote, the entire system of democratic accountability collapses. The decision to not vote relies on others to uphold the system, which can be seen as shirking one's civic duty. 

Voting is not the only civic duty

Voting is an important form of civic engagement, but it is not the only one. Other responsibilities that strengthen democracy include: 

• Staying informed on issues and candidates.

• Paying taxes.

• Serving on a jury.

• Volunteering and participating in community service.

• Obeying the law.