America: Still To Build

"The American Journey has not ended.  America is never accomplished.  America is always still to build . . ." said former Librarian of Congress Archibald MacLeish in a 1961 speech.

We are fortunate as Americans that we are active participants in governing our country.  The right to vote gives each of us an important voice.  It is more valuable when we recognize that the story of America has not fully been written.  The building of America is not done.  It will never be completely finished.  Work always continues to advance the American Dream-to continuously move forward as the nation of individuals with constitutionally protected rights, equality and opportunity that our Founding Fathers envisioned when they established our Republic based on the understanding that the people's vote is the underlying check in our system of self-governance. 

We have serious work ahead to fix the out-of-control national debt that is approaching $20 trillion.  Reducing federal spending and reforming programs headed for insolvency are essential parts of the solution.  Pro-growth tax reform that will generate investment, capital formation and jobs is critical to reversing the sluggishness in our economy.  We must end the excess federal regulations that stifle innovation and carry disproportionate costs.  Further, the tenor of the U.S. Supreme Court will be affected by the next selections for this highly-influential federal branch. 

Participating in the electoral process, including learning about candidates and issues, is essential.  The official voting information website for the State of Idaho can be accessed at www.idahovotes.gov.  The website provides election forms, voter registration information, polling place locations and other voting information.  Photo identification, including an Idaho driver's license or identification card issued by the Idaho Transportation Department, a U.S. passport or federal photo identification card, a tribal photo identification card, student photo identification or signing a Personal Identification Affidavit, are required to vote.

On Tuesday, November 8, communities, states and the country need broad involvement in the upcoming elections to set the best direction for our United States of America.  We must lend our voices to improving our nation.  Voting is our right and individual responsibility to help shape our country.  This right is secured by sacrifice and desired around the world.  It is comforting to know that, despite the divisiveness right now in our country, people can constructively disagree.  No matter the outcome of the elections, political discourse will carry on as we continue on our American Journey. 

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