Hi there. Yeah, you. I just wanted to remind you to start thinking about the upcoming presidential election. Chances are that 1 out of every 3 people that read this didn't vote in the 2004 elections.

I'm gonna make it easy for you.

I'm not going to tell you who to vote for. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me if you're going to vote for the candidate that's going to fix all of the wrongs in Washington, or that other guy.

Just be an informed voter.

Sure, everyone knows how their candidate feels about the "hot button" issues, but what about other stuff like health care, education, or economic positions? Learn about each candidate's platform at the non-partisan web site procon.org. Who knows, maybe you'll find out that another candidate more closely reflects your beliefs!

"But Matt", you say, "I learn everything I need to know by watching the campaign commercials during CSI." Would you believe that both candidates have been caught stretching the truth a bit in their adverts? Luckily, the fine folks at factcheck.org have taken the time to research campaign commercials and major speeches. This site is also non-partisan and calls out both Obama and McCain when they sideswipe the truth.

Okay, now that you know who you're voting for, make sure that you are registered to vote. In many states, your name can be removed from the rolls if you move, if there are clerical errors, or a million other reasons. (This happened to me!) If you're not registered yet, time is running out. Most states don't allow you to register less than 30 days before an election. Here's a giant page full of info for every state, including how to register, links to polling locations, etc. The page is from dailykos.com, which is a very partisan site, but this registration information is good for everyone.

"Bad officials are elected by good citizens who do not vote."
--George Jean Nathan

So um.. don't be a good citizen -- wait... I mean, aww heck, you know what I mean.

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