In the early 1900s, progressive reformers argued that nominating conventions ignored the rank and file voter. Because they believe that party leaders were corrupt, reformers worked to establish the primary as a way to increase citizen participation in nominations and check the influence of party bosses.

The primary allows the voters in an election to choose the party’s candidates. In Colorado, we have a closed primary which limits participation to those who are registered with a specific party. July 10 was the last day to register for the Aug. 8 primary election in Colorado. If you are a registered voter and affiliated with a party, you may choose to vote in the primary on the date specified or apply for an absentee ballot with your county clerk. Those wanting to participate via absentee ballot must apply before Aug. 4 for the primary election and before Nov. 3 for the general election.

To assist those voters discouraged from the civic duty by the long lines and rigid schedules that voted commands, early voting may help. Early voting begins the week before a primary or general election, ending the preceding Friday. In Colorado, voters need to pencil in a day between July 29 and Aug. 4 to participate in early voting for the primary. To cast your vote in the general election, you will need to visit your polling precinct some time between Oct. 23 and Nov. 3.

After reading the overloaded calendar of deadlines for absentee ballots and early voting at the Secretary of State’s office, the low voter turnout is frustrating. Our election process now affords us fewer restrictions than ever before. We are being incessantly encouraged to exercise our duties as citizens of a great democracy, yet we have been increasingly apathetic to its needs. Nevertheless, with all the concessions being made to voters, turnout is still poor and declining at a staggering rate.

A new America is emerging. We are entering into a time in our history where self-sacrifice is nonexistent. Current generations are being further removed from the afflictions of war. The sacrifices made by our citizens on behalf of freedom have now become nothing more than legend for Hollywood profit. Meanwhile, Third World countries and former communist states are shown on nightly news reveling in the opportunity to vote without fear of persecution. The people of the United States laid the groundwork for democracy throughout the world by pledging their lives, fortunes and their sacred honor, yet we do not graciously receive their precious gift and honor their sacrifice. What is wrong with this picture?

If you failed to register for your primary, please make it a point to register before Oct. 10 for the Nov.. 7 general election, in which the course of our state and our nation will be determined. In order to vote, you must be a citizen of the United States; at least 18 years of age on or before the election; a resident in a Colorado precinct at least 30 days before the election; and registered as a voter at least 29 days before the election.

Registering to vote is as easy as picking up a mail-in application at your local library and mailing it in, or registering at any driver’s licensing office, public assistance agency, or county clerk’s office.

The effort is minimal, but the statement is monumental.