Tailgating Could Increase Voter Turnout

It never ceases to amaze me that those relatively few individuals, who actually show up to vote, especially in Presidential elections, decide most outcomes. I was reading in some periodical the other day of how only 70 percent of those eligible to vote, are actually registered to vote and of those less than 50 percent actually perform their civic duty and cast a ballot. I then began to wonder how could we captivate and motivate the great citizens of the United States to get out and cast a ballot. We are coming up on an especially important election year, as it will decide policy that will affect everyone for decades. Then like a bolt of lightning it became as clear as day, A tailgate party!

Before you begin to think that I have been hitting booze a bit too hard lately, I want you to think about your own voting experiences. You usually end up lining up in a parking lot at a school, church or perhaps a library while campaigners for various candidates scream at you from a block away. Everyone in line seems so morose like they have been asked to go to jury duty or eat liver! Well, now picture all those folks that arrive early to see their favorite football teams play, they too line up in a parking lot, but they arrive hours in advance to enjoy the experience and cheer on their team. Since the Presidential election takes place during football season; it's a natural!

Think about rows of cars and trucks grilling hot dogs and hamburgers while the people discuss the policies of the day. Those that actually try to influence your vote and work for candidates would still be subject to campaigning laws while those waiting to vote would be having a great time. Everyone loves a good tailgate party so the voter turnout is sure to increase tremendously. I bet before long the board of elections would have to start holding elections in larger venues to accommodate those who want to do their civic duty and party as well.

Finally, think about how this could help our seniors as well. Many of our elderly do not have the means or ability to get to the polling places. With all the trucks and mini vans that show up to a tailgate party, we could have a contest for those who transport the most eligible voters who are senior citizens. It's even better than meals on wheels!

I just want to restate, that even though this article was meant to be fun, the key point is that most of those who are eligible to vote, don't. This needs to change, as your vote is your voice on those important policies that affect our children and us. If you don't vote, you shouldn't complain.