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Somewhere inside all of us is the power to change the world. Voting is one of those powers.

In 2018 we saw a historic number of women not only enter the race, but be elected to Congress. What an achievement in all that happened because people took the time out to vote.

President Trump was a long shot, most people thought Hillary Clinton would win the race. While he did not have the popular vote, he won the Electoral College votes and he is now the President of the United States. He won the votes where it mattered the most because those who wanted to see him in power made their votes count.

Vice-President Biden was practically down for the count, but South Carolina voters stepped in and used their voice to rejuvenate his campaign. He is now considered the Democratic front runner for the presidency when moments before most folks were waiting to see who he would endorse after Super Tuesday. That’s what happens when people take the time to let their voice be heard.

Who a person votes for is their business and their right whether you are a Democrat or a Republican. You have a right to make your voice heard no matter your affiliation and no one should be able to take your vote away.

Utilize the website vote.org/state/Virginia/ to ensure you are prepared for the 2020 election. If you are not sure whether you are registered to vote, verify. If you are not registered, then register, it only takes a few minutes. If you are unable to vote in person you can request an absentee ballot. And finally, you can even get election reminders so you will never miss another vote.

All elections are important and should be treated that way, whether you are voting for the president, Senate, Congress, sheriff, town council, etc…. stand up, let your voice be heard, and vote. It’s your right and duty. Be Blessed In Jesus’ Name.

Mary Simmons is a columnist for The Kenbridge-Victoria Dispatch. She can be reached at marysimmons6@hotmail.com.