By Harold Keller-Get High on Life

If all the predictions are correct, the voter turnout for Saturday’s election will be very low, just as it was a few years ago.

It’s hard for me to understand the voters’ apathy. The majority of the people who do vote don’t get involved in the democratic process and actively support a candidate. They go to the polls without much research, voting against a person, rather than supporting the person who would do the best job.

Last week, I ran into an attorney at a local restaurant. His remark to me was, “Mr. Keller, this is your time of the year,” meaning the election year.

He is right. I enjoy the privilege and the right I have to vote for the people I think will better govern our parish and state.

Have I made bad choices over the years? Too many to mention, but that will never stop me from voicing my opinion in a voting booth.

It’s predicted that approximately 45 percent of the registered voters in Louisiana will not bother to vote. Over the years, I’ve heard all the excuses: “All politicians are crooked.” “I don’t like any of the candidates.” “It really doesn’t matter who wins; they’re all the same.” And last of all, “My vote won’t make a difference.”

When Sen. Mary Landrieu defeated Woody Jenkins a few years ago, the vote was so close that if Jenkins would have received only one more vote in every precinct in the state, he would be the U.S. Senator. Yes, one vote can make a difference.

In 1776 – one vote gave America the English language instead of German.

In 1845 – one vote brought the state of Texas into the Union.

In 1868 – one vote saved President Andrew Johnson from impeachment.

In 1941 – one vote saved the Selective Service System just 12 weeks before Pearl Harbor was attacked.

And in 1923, one vote gave Adolph Hitler control of the Nazi Party.

Never underestimate the power of one vote. You, along, can make a difference. Will you?

HAROLD KELLER writes this column as part of his affiliation with the Get High on Life religious motivational organization. Call 652-8477 or write to P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084.