Your vote counts

Have you been following the curious case of the election for state Representative in the Sixth Worcester District? A court ruled yesterday that the election for the seat back in November resulted in a tie, and that there should be a new vote held this Spring.

We think this is a perfect example of how much every vote counts in an election. It doesn't matter what the seat is or who the candidates are. What's important is that every citizen finds time in their day to do their civic duty and go vote. Had one more person voted in the Sixth Worcester District back in November, the result would be very different, one way or the other.

Need more proof? Take a look at the attached academic study, which attempted to assign a probability to the chance of a tie vote or an election determined by just one vote. It's rare, but it happens, and since you're choosing someone who will make important decisions for your community, it's a big risk.

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/blogs/freakonomics/pdf/MulliganPivotalVote.pdf

Bottom line: Your vote counts. A lot. Always exercise your right and get out to vote!