In a recent article about the governor’s race (“Shying from Trump, LePage seeks his old job back,” Oct. 1), I saw a quote (which was paraphrased) that some people are “tuning out” on the election because of “corrosive partisanship.” I’m writing to ask everyone, please, don’t tune out!

I know it’s very tempting to disengage these days. I don’t like ads that attack candidates either. But trying to ignore those or other acts of partisanship won’t make the problems go away, and this election is far too important to sit out.

We have so much on the line. Abortion rights, and potentially contraceptive rights and marriage equality for those in the LGBTQ+ community. Voting rights and making sure everyone eligible to vote can do so easily. Climate change, which is a threat to all of us, regardless of political party. And more.

If we want to see our rights protected and real action taken to mitigate the damages of climate change, we have to vote, and vote in large numbers. Sitting out will mean that a minority of people will determine who’s in a leadership position in these next few years, and that will likely only deepen the partisan divide.

If you feel tempted to tune out because of ads, maybe mute them or do something else while they’re on. But please, stay tuned about the issues themselves and vote on Nov. 8.

Erica Bartlett
Portland

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