Voting is a responsibility (Part 1 of 2)

“In every government on earth is some trace of human weakness, some germ of corruption and degeneracy, which cunning will discover, and wickedness insensibly open, cultivate, and improve. Every government degenerates when trusted to the rulers of the people alone.” — Thomas Jefferson, Notes on the State of Virginia, 1781-1782

Thomas Jefferson, a “founding father,” third president of the United States, and the chief architect of the Declaration of Independence, was also a stark proponent of democracy. However, he was also an enigma in that while he owned more than 600 slaves, this quote is one of Jefferson’s strongest statements in favor of active civic participation, an informed citizenry, and checks on governmental power.

Jefferson believed that every government has weaknesses that dishonest people can exploit. Corruption grows gradually when citizens are not paying attention. A free government remains healthy only when the people actively watch, question and hold their leaders accountable.

Jefferson argued that the ultimate safeguard of liberty is an informed and engaged citizenry, not blind trust in those who hold office.

The ideas espoused by Jefferson were:

• A democracy is only as strong as the knowledge of its citizens.
• Government works for the people, not the other way around. Government exists to serve the people.
• Even good governments could become corrupt if citizens became passive. Citizens should hold their elected officials accountable.
• If people don’t participate, they leave decisions to others. Voting is a responsibility.
• Democracy starts in your own community.
• Free press was essential because citizens need information to make good decisions.

When we consider our present political climate, the reversal of major civil rights protections in housing, lending, employment, education and health care, along with the attacks on freedom of the press and free speech, and book bans, not to mention the cutting of the Voting Rights Act and attempts to limit citizenship, Jefferson’s words seem prescient.

Jefferson’s emphasis on an informed and engaged citizenry is especially relevant to the 2024 election: more than 89 million eligible voters did not cast a ballot. Vice President Harris received just over 75 million votes, while Trump received more than 77 million. In other words, more people stayed home than voted for either candidate.

To be clear, Jefferson wrote these words and the Declaration of Independence at a time when Black people were enslaved, denied citizenship, treated as property and excluded from the right to vote. Yet his warning remains as true in 2026 as it was in 1781, whether he fully intended its broader meaning or spoke a truth larger than himself. However, Jefferson’s words, written 245 years ago, underscore the importance of voting and civic participation and the power it engenders to change our current realities.

Historically disenfranchised, oppressed and marginalized communities have taken Jefferson’s ideals seriously, fighting fiercely to claim them since the 14th Amendment made us citizens in 1868, the 15th Amendment guaranteed voting rights in 1870, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 strengthened those protections.

November 3, 2026, marks the midterm elections, which are poised to be the most consequential election of my lifetime. As a lifelong voter since 1984, I’ve participated in every election, local, state and national, and this midterm election stands out as the most significant election I’ve ever been a part of. As mentioned above, with only two years in office, this current administration has taken several actions to eliminate or tremendously limit our basic human and civil rights.

It is crucial for every eligible Black, Brown and Indigenous voter to participate in this midterm election. Voting is more than a right; it is a responsibility. It is the collective ability of the masses to get out and make their voices heard.

Why voting matters

Elections determine who makes decisions about your rights, your community and public resources. Your vote is your voice and your opportunity to advocate for yourself, your family and your community.

Vote based on the issues

When evaluating candidates, ask:

• Do they protect your rights?
• Will they work to bring resources to your community?
• Do their policies support opportunity, safety, education, healthcare, jobs and economic growth?
• Have they demonstrated a commitment to serving the public, not just making promises?

Don’t vote based on personality alone

Elections are not popularity contests. Charisma and name recognition should not outweigh a candidate’s record and policies. Focus on who is prepared to represent your interests and uphold the constitutional ideals of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Sometimes voters face difficult choices between imperfect candidates. Learn the differences and make an informed decision.

Do your research

Before voting:

• Learn who is on your ballot.
• Read each candidate’s platform.
• Compare their records, priorities and proposals.
• Ask whether their plans are realistic and achievable.

Voting is only the beginning

Casting your ballot is an important first step, but it is not the final step. Participate in every election, local, state and federal.

After the election:

• Stay informed.
• Attend public meetings.
• Contact your elected officials.
• Hold them accountable for the promises they made.

Democracy works best when citizens stay engaged before and after Election Day.

Be patient

Change does not happen overnight. New laws and policies often take months, or even years, to produce results. Stay engaged and continue advocating for your community.

Part 2 of this series covers key dates for Minnesota’s 2026 primary and general elections, as well as what’s at stake in the fight for control of Congress.

If you have any questions, please reach out to James Trice, founder and CEO of The Public Policy Project, at James_publicpolicyproject@gmail.com.