By Lee Ann Witt | Thoughts on Innovation
As America approaches its 250th birthday, we have an opportunity to reflect not only on our nation’s history but also on our role in shaping its future. While there are many freedoms we enjoy, one of the most powerful is the right to vote.
Few responsibilities of citizenship are more important than voting. Generations of Americans fought, sacrificed, and persevered to secure and protect that right. Our democracy depends on citizens who are willing to participate, stay informed, and make their voices heard.
Primary elections often have a significant impact on the direction of our communities. Primaries determine which candidates appear on the general election ballot and frequently shape important decisions long before November arrives. However, voter participation in primary elections is often far lower than in general elections, with turnout frequently below 30% of eligible voters.
When that happens, a relatively small number of people make decisions that affect everyone. If we want our voices heard, we must participate throughout the entire election process — not just on Election Day in November.
While millions of Americans vote in every election cycle, millions more choose not to participate. Democracy does not sustain itself. It depends on informed citizens who are willing to engage, vote, and accept the responsibilities that come with self-government.
As our nation prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence, let’s do more than honor our history. Let us honor the civic duty that accompanies the freedoms we enjoy. The rights we possess today were entrusted to us by those who came before us. It is now our turn to preserve
them for future generations.
Voting is more than a right. It is one of the most meaningful ways we can shape the future of our communities, our state, and our nation.
The Primary Election is July 21, 2026. If you plan to be out of town, mail your ballot by July 14.
democracy is strongest when all of us participate.
Editor’s Note: Lee Ann Witt is executive director at Scottsdale Leadership
