Don't let fear rule
The word "vote" is derived from an Old English word meaning "vow." Voting should be as sacred and important as a vow. It is a promise, a trust, a personal and private matter. Your vote is a sacred thing; it is not a strategic "move" or a pawn. In a representative democracy, our duty and our right is to vote for the candidate who best represents us: the candidate who most closely follows our beliefs and priorities. If we vote otherwise, we fall prey to fear tactics and assumptions, and we may never realize that which we truly desire.
When I fill in my choice for Senate District B next Tuesday, I am not going to waste my one vote on the supposition that a "majority" senator will be more effective than a "minority" senator. My vote is going to be placed for the person I think will represent me. I plan to vote for the person whom I believe will fight for the things that I hold important and vital: Kim Elton. I am going to place my vote for a man who believes strongly in education. Kim Elton has never failed to volunteer in my classroom whenever I asked, and he has always supported the Juneau School District teachers and children, not just with words and promises, but with hours spent with students in the classroom. Kim is a dedicated community member who cares about children and their education. I believe that he will strive in every way he can to make sure Juneau's children, and Alaska's children, will receive the best funding, education and opportunities. I am going to vote for Kim Elton, because as a mother and a teacher, I think he best represents my values and priorities. I urge you to vote for Kim Elton as well. Do not let your vote be wasted by buying into fear tactics.
Amy Lloyd
Juneau School District teacher