Every week the editorial board reflects on a current issue in Our View. The position taken does not reflect the opinions of everyone on the Hilltop Views staff.

Every vote counts. His. Hers. Maybe even yours, if you registered.

While Americans profess their distaste for the current government, U.S. voter turnout rates remain low. Every American citizen should vote.

Scotland’s voter turnout rate, when determining whether to split from the United Kingdom, was close to 85 percent. The voter turnout rate for a presidential election in America is 60 percent.

Regardless of whether a voter’s state has a reputation for leaning far right or far left, America will never experience the benefits of citizens’ opinions if they don’t vote.

There are thousands of excuses Americans make for not voting.

Many believe that, since their states have always voted Republican or Democrat, their votes won’t change anything. They feel that their voices won’t be heard even if they do vote.

This is not the case. Those who are discouraged by the self-perceived futility of their vote should demonstrate their support by voting.

Even if one vote does not sway the majority, more votes for a typically less-supported party could encourage that party during future elections.

Many people avoid voting because they are apathetic. They don’t want to take the time to register, drive to voting centers and stand in line in exchange for no instant gratification.

Those infected with apathy need to show more concern for the country.

Many Americans don’t have the time, transportation or education needed to register and vote. Those who do, like students, should take advantage of these privileges.

Voting is not a chore. A responsibility to the country, yes. But by no means is it a burden.

Voting is an opportunity. It is the one productive form of complaint.  

Many refuse to register to vote for reasons as inadequate as avoiding jury duty. While jury duty is lame, allowing America to spiral into a pit of tyranny and autocratic dictatorship (what would probably happen if nobody voted) would be more lame.

Voter apathy is illogical. While people often have the energy to complain about their situation, they don’t vote, which is one of the easiest ways to change the sources of their complaints.

Americans, viewing the presidency as the most important vote, often view it as the only vote. But citizens should vote in every election: city council, district judge and Senate.

Even third party propositions are important. Ask Bill Clinton or Monica Lewinsky about small propositions: they can make a world of a difference.

College students, freshly educated and eager to change the world, should especially vote. It’s your voice. It’s your vote. It’s your country