Shelter Island Reporter editorial: Make a plan to vote

Every election in America is critical, whether at the national, state or local level. Voting is the engine that drives the democratic process.

The oft-repeated expression “all politics is local” means that whom you vote for in your town or village matters, affecting the taxes you pay, the support services you need and what your community will look like in the future.

The ballot — and the ability to cast one easily — represents the foundation of American democracy. Shameless politicians who maneuver to make voting difficult, or draw odd shapes on district maps to improve their chances, do so because they fear they can’t win if voting is straightforward and simple.

In America, since 2020, one group that lost cried foul and claimed there was widespread cheating in the presidential election. Their philosophy is: If we win, it was a free and fair election; if we lose, the other side cheated. 

What are the motives of those who no longer respect our system? It’s to sow doubt, encourage indifference to voting and keep everyone except their own supporters home. 

It’s no exaggeration to say the elections across the country on Nov. 3 are crucial to our country’s well-being. The administration in Washington — with elements of the Justice Department and the Department of Homeland Security — are pounding drums about “‘election security,” claiming the Democrats will “steal” the election and threatening to have “monitors” at polls and even armed agents patrolling voting places. 

This “Big Lie” is one more example of the shameful assault on our democracy that is ongoing.   

Early voting on Shelter Island starts tomorrow, Saturday, Oct. 24. No one has to wait until Nov. 3 to cast a ballot. Mail-in voting is already underway in many areas and it’s a great way to make voting easier for those who might have difficulty getting to the polls on Election Day.

Remember that old expression: If you don’t have a plan, you’re planning to fail. Make a plan and vote. The more eligible citizens who vote, the more vibrant our democracy. Vote like America itself — what we have been since 1789 — is on the ballot. Because it is.

EARLY VOTING TIMES

All early voting will take place at the Community Center, 1 Bateman Road.

• Saturday/Sunday/Monday. Oct. 24-26 —10 a.m.- 6 p.m.

• Tuesday/Wednesday, Oct. 27-28 — 7 a.m.- 3 p.m.

• Thursday/Friday, Oct. 29/30 — 12 p.m.- 8 p.m.

• Saturday/Sunday, Oct. 31/Nov. 1 —10 a.m.- 6 p.m.