Your Vote Is Your Voice: America Cannot Afford for You to Sit This Election Out

Every election matters, but the 2026 midterm election deserves the full attention of the American people.

Too many eligible voters believe their individual vote will not make a difference. Others become discouraged because they feel politicians do not listen once an election is over. Those feelings may be understandable, but choosing not to vote gives other people the power to make decisions on your behalf.

The 2026 midterms will determine the direction of Congress. Every one of the 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives will be on the ballot, along with approximately one-third of the 100 Senate seats. Members of Congress help determine which bills receive consideration, how federal money is spent, and whether the administration’s agenda is advanced, changed, or blocked. (USA.gov)

The Cost of Living Is Still a Serious Concern

Political speeches cannot erase what families experience at grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, pharmacies, and when paying their utility bills.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, consumer prices were 3.4% higher in July 2026 than they were one year earlier. Food prices increased 3%, including a 3.4% increase in the cost of eating away from home. Energy prices increased 14.7%, electricity increased 4.2%, and gasoline increased 24.6%. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

These numbers require some explanation. A lower inflation rate does not necessarily mean prices are falling. It generally means prices are rising more slowly than before. Families may therefore continue paying much more than they paid several years ago, even when officials announce that inflation has moderated.

This is why voters should look beyond slogans. Ask whether wages are keeping pace with expenses. Examine what candidates propose to do about housing, groceries, healthcare, energy, taxes, and employment. Most importantly, determine whether those proposals are realistic and who would benefit from them.

The Federal Deficit Cannot Be Ignored

The federal government is also continuing to spend considerably more than it collects.

The Congressional Budget Office estimated that the federal budget deficit reached approximately $1.8 trillion during the first ten months of fiscal year 2026—$169 billion more than during the same period one year earlier. Based on information available through July, the agency estimated that the full-year deficit could reach approximately $2.1 trillion. (Congressional Budget Office)

The deficit is not simply an abstract number. Continued borrowing adds to the national debt, while interest payments consume money that could otherwise support infrastructure, education, healthcare, public safety, and other national priorities.

No political party should receive a blank check. Voters should demand a clear explanation of how every candidate plans to control spending, raise revenue, protect essential programs, and prevent the debt burden from being passed to future generations.

Hold Every Candidate Accountable

Before casting your ballot, ask:

• What has this candidate actually accomplished?
• How did the candidate vote on issues affecting working families?
• Do the candidate’s proposals primarily benefit ordinary citizens or a small group of powerful interests?
• What is the candidate’s plan for reducing living expenses?
• How will the candidate address the deficit without placing an unfair burden on working people, seniors, or future generations?
• Does the candidate respect the Constitution, the rule of law, and the public’s right to hold government accountable?

Do not depend solely on political advertisements, social-media posts, or campaign speeches. Review voting records, compare policy proposals, study a sample ballot, and consult reliable voter guides. (USA.gov voter-research guide)

Sitting Out Is Still a Decision

If you do not vote, elections will continue without you. Members of Congress will still make decisions about taxes, healthcare, Social Security, Medicare, education, federal spending, and the cost of government.

You may be disappointed with politics. You may believe that neither party has done enough. But silence does not force elected officials to become more accountable. Participation does.

Register to vote. Check your registration status. Learn the deadlines in your state. Research the candidates and issues. Talk with your family, friends, and neighbors. Help an elderly or disabled voter obtain reliable information about accessible voting options. Then cast your ballot according to your values and your understanding of the facts.

America’s government is supposed to answer to its citizens—but citizens must participate for that principle to have meaning.

Do not surrender your voice. Do not allow someone else to make every decision for you. In the 2026 midterm election, get informed, show up, and vote.

Read. Share. Register. Vote. Join the conversation.

Voters can register or update their information through Vote.gov.

Marvin Dixon/Founder

VMGreview.com