While the freedom to choose or reject our leaders makes us the beacon of liberty in the world, voter turnout nationwide remains low. According to Pew Research, only 54 percent of the voting-age population in the U.S. voted in 2012.
America was founded on the revolutionary idea that our government doesn’t give us power; our government only has the power that we, the people, choose to give it. Our rights are endowed upon us by our Creator, and key to these is the right to vote.
I am proud that Southwest Michigan residents take voting to heart and turn out to participate in our democratic republic. To those who say that their vote doesn’t matter: Every vote matters and sometimes a single vote can make all the difference.
I encourage all citizens to exercise their voice by getting out to vote. Election Day is Nov. 8 and the polls are open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.
If you do not know where you’re supposed to go to vote, visit the Michigan Voter Information Center at: www.michigan.gov/vote. Enter your first and last name, date of birth and residential ZIP code, and the website will give you the address and a map of your polling location.
Voters in Berrien County may also get their polling location information by contacting the county clerk’s office at 269-983-7111 ext. 8264 or by email at: elections@berriencounty.org. Cass County voters should contact 269-445-4464.
When voters go to the polls to cast a ballot, they will be asked to present photo identification, such as a Michigan driver’s license or state-issued ID card. The voter information center site details the acceptable forms of ID, but if you do not have photo ID or do not bring it with you to the polls, you may still vote. Simply sign an affidavit and your ballot will be counted.
I would also urge voters to learn as much as possible about the candidates and the issues. Our state and nation continue to take on challenges and we need effective leaders who are willing to stand up for their communities. While the presidential election is the most visible, there are important choices to be made for state, county and local offices.
Please exercise your constitutional right to vote. Your voice could help determine the direction of our local communities, our state and our nation.

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents Southwest Michigan.