Why vote?
Swindon Borough Council spends nearly two hundred million pounds per year to make sure Swindon is a modern and exciting place to live.
If you live in Swindon and you vote, you are using your power to influence life in Swindon.
You may think voting changes nothing, but in fact it is one of the most important ways of making a difference. Remember, a government only has power because people vote for it.
If you don't vote, you're giving up control to those who do.
Some elections are won by little more than a dozen votes - that means you and your friends voting could change the result of an entire election!
I Won't Be Voting Because...
Whilst It’s obvious that everyone should vote, it's the broken promises that that make you wonder why you should bother! Wasting money on things like spraying the councils transport orange is ludicrous and the high rises in our council tax that are unjustified - who makes these decisions? It’s a very badly run council that needs a total overhaul and residents should have a part to play in these decisions.
If the candidates can't be bothered to provide any details on this website, the only one advertised in the election paperwork, how are voters expected to make informed choices.
No candidate had the time to talk about any of the important issues such as recycling!.
I Will Be Voting Because...
Voter apathy destroys democracy. Even if you spoil your ballot paper, you have made a contribution. It also gives you the right to criticise policies. What right do you have if you didn't even bother to vote?
Although this is a local election I will be voting to save the world. National governments have lost the way and we must get back on the path by starting at the root problems.
People before us fought hard for the right to vote and in some countries even today people are literally dying for the right. Let's not let that go to waste. Also, if you don't vote, other people are going to make the decisions for you.
I think the internet & phone options are excellent - it should be made as easy as possible for people to exercise their vote....however, these alternate methods of voting should also include a "spoilt ballot" option - I want to be able to record the fact that I have no faith in ANY of the candidates. I am disgusted that not one of my local candidates has tried to engage me in any meaningful discussion or argument, all you get is a leaflet through the door - if thats all my vote is worth, why should I give it to them? Also, party politics in local elections is a cancer - lets have more independents who are not afraid to act in the best interests of their constituents, rather than their party.
I want to vote because it makes me feel special. Like I am helping all my friends and neighbours to have a happier life. Voting for the right party is an amazing feeling. Do it! DO IT NOW!
Opinions expressed above do not necessarily represent the views of Swindon Borough Council.
All views are welcome, but offensive comments will not be displayed.
