Rural Votes Matter

Rural Votes Matter

I’m KayDee Gilkey with the Northwest Farm and Ranch Report.

Although most of the country waits for election day on November 6th to cast their ballots, two of the three Pacific Northwest states -- Washington and Oregon -- use mail-in ballot systems. So if you have already done your civic duty -- great job. Those in Idaho and those of you who still have their ballot unopened on the pile on your desk listen up. Your vote matters, especially if you live in the country.

American Farm Bureau Director of Policy Implementation LJ Johnson shares the importance of rural residences voting.

Johnson: “There is just no doubt the the rural vote is really important. Both presidential candidates see that in order to get to the White House it leads down rural roads. I’m sure that the city people look at that and go, ‘Why do they pay so much attention to rural?’ Well it is because those rural voters provide them an edge.”

Many of us have had to opportunity to visit foreign countries which usually helps us to appreciate even more what we have here. Choosing those who lead our country is one of those special privileges and rights we have. Be sure you exercise your right to vote in this election.

Johnson: “It is sad that so many people around the world would like to have the vote like we do and we have so many citizens that choose not to. But I can tell you that it appears as if rural people understand the need because they tend to get out and vote, often times much more often than city people do. Get that vote in because you’ve got to be heard. It is your patriotic duty, and you might be that deciding vote.”

I’m KayDee Gilkey with the Northwest Farm and Ranch Report on the Ag Information Network.