Voting is not a name just magically picked from a box.
Someone does not just become president. Growing up and living in the society we do, it has become clear that it is much more complicated. Voting means choosing a person who you believe can lead, serve, and unite. But what makes someone “presidential”?
It is important for those who cannot vote yet to be educated on the subject. What young people learn about this shapes the way we will all vote later. Elections decide who makes certain laws, manages crises, and stands for our country. Elections should not only be about candidates’ policies, but also about their character and leadership ability.
Who wins the election affects more things than most assume. This includes important things like school funding, climate action, civil rights, etc. The ballot is not random; in fact, it is enormously powerful.
Some qualities that make presidents likable by most are not taught in a textbook but shown through character. Integrity and honesty are big ones.
A president should not be scared to tell the truth to the people they lead, even if it is a hard truth to swallow. A president should have a vision for the future of the people they represent.
They should know how they want to help the world, not make it worse. A good president would have empathy.
Someone who listens to the people who disagree with their views and admits when they may be wrong.
Steady hands in a crisis and the ability to unite. A president should be for all people, not just one party. In wars, economic crashes, etc, a president should be able to stay calm and smart.
When voting, it can feel like comparing flaws instead of finding a “hero.” Every candidate has flaws and weaknesses, but what matters most is who does less harm and more good. It is a hypocritical system. People evaluate who has done fewer bad things. Voting is a responsibility and an honor.
Voting is a voice. Choosing not just politics, but who gets to lead the country. Every vote matters because every voice matters. People should stay informed, have discussions with others, and reflect on the past elections even before being able to vote.
By staying informed, you have exact data and up-to-date information about who is running for election, or most times running again. Reading the news, watching debates, etc, could help everyone stay informed. By having discussions with others yourself about politics, it is important to stay respectful.
Talking to adults and friends with different views can challenge you and educate you as well.
Voting is more than filling in circles on a sheet or punching buttons. Voting is choosing someone worthy of the huge trust everyone puts in a president. If society starts to care deeply now, the future voters will understand the system.
Maybe a president who really deserves the job will be elected.
