Democracy Rocks

Yesterday Precocious Daughter and I voted in the Texas Democratic primary.

Her first time voting.

She was way excited, and frankly, so was I.

It was early voting, which was great, because although every voting machine was in use when we got to the polling place, there was no line. The lady who checked PDaughter's ID obviously noticed her birthdate and asked if it was her first time to vote. When PDaughter answered in the affirmative, all the poll workers turned toward her and applauded. That was nice.

Outside the local library, which was our early-voting location, we got to meet the candidate for state representative for whom we planned to vote. It turned out we have a mutual friend in a district judge who is up for re-election, so we had a very nice chat. We also got to meet our local precinct chairman, a very nice man who welcomed us and thanked us for voting.

My wonderful, smart, nerdy child was awestruck by the entire experience. She was so proud to have voted. And I was so proud to see how proud she was.

Just pride all over the damn place.

his morning I mentioned to a co-worker that PDaughter had voted for the first time (he also has a daughter who just turned 18). And he confessed to me - literally in a whisper - that he has never voted in his entire life.

This man is in his late 40s. He has multiple degrees and is actually working toward another one right now. And he's never once voted in a single election at any level.

I am Joey at this moment.

Let me tell you a little secret. When I was married, my ex and I voted in the major elections...you know, President, statewide elections, midterms, that sort of thing. But I rarely voted in primaries, and I never voted in local elections. Because it wasn't a priority for him, and so it wasn't a priority for me.

This is what can happen when you allow yourself to be absorbed by your spouse.

Since I've been single, I've voted in every election. I've made myself research candidates for even the most minor of elected offices. Dammit, they're not minor until you realize that no one cares about them. I've come to realize that my voice may be small, but it's freaking powerful if I make the effort to speak up.

Making the effort is the best.

Never stop making an effort, Drunkards.

So I vote. And I make sure PDaughter knows I've voted, whenever and wherever it occurs.

And that's why my remarkable child and I just voted in the Texas Democratic primary together.

For the record: Beto O'Rourke for U.S. Senator. Because he's the best.

In addition to being smart, compassionate,
and qualified, he's way easier on the eyes
than Ted Cruz.

Voting is freedom. Voting is independence. Voting is being fully American.

Honestly, not voting is a major turn-off for me. Voting is sexy af.

I've raised a voter. That makes me happy.

Please vote, you guys. It's our shot at being part of history.

Why would you want to pass on that shot?

Casa Baudelaire votes Democrat. But you vote you.

Voting rocks.