No Free Coffee for Voting

As we didn't open until late 2004, this is our first presidential election campaign as owners of a coffeehouse.  We're seeing a lot of promotions from different coffee purveyors (chain and indie) offering a free cup of coffee if you vote tomorrow (and possibly illegally).

Voting is a right granted us in the Constitution.  Being an informed voter is one of very few things requested of us to be a citizen of this country.  But unlike Australia, it's not the law.  You won't get fined here if you don't vote. 

For those who've expended no effort in becoming informed about the details of what or who you're voting for, maybe it's best you don't vote anyway.  For others, even being informed doesn't help if one feels they're simply choosing between two awful options. 

So we're not giving away free coffee or any other reward tomorrow just for exercising your right to vote.  Because exercising your right to not vote is equally as important.  In either case, your reward is the action itself.

Just remember, we get exactly the government we deserve.  And for the record, we do vote.

Really, think about your vote this time, OK?  Voting isn't a duty, it's a privilege.  But knowing what's going on with your country should be everyone's duty.

Comments

[Luke]

In the spirit of election day... "I approve this message".

Besides, most "free" coffee tastes like it's not worth spending a couple bucks for...

[Rich]

I edited out the part that if you mindlessly vote a straight ticket regardless of party, you should pay us $2.00 ;-)

[Jay]

Sorry, but voting is your RIGHT, not merely a privilege! Scorn, contempt and imprisonment are the just desserts for those who would keep people from the polls!

[rich]

Who's talking about keeping people from voting?

[Jay]

I am.