The Gentlemen’s Corner W/ Colin Furcht – Gentlemen’s Guide to Voting

As you read this, you may have already voted. Thank you for doing your part! If you are an Election Day voter, like me, I humbly offer some insights to voting from someone who has been on the ballot, won and lost. This will not be about WHO to choose but more HOW to choose. So many aspects of local, state and federal elections matter to us every single day. An educated voter is an impactful voter.

Why is it important?

Being able to vote in a democracy is one of the many things we enjoy as citizens. Having a voice in who and how our country is run is something we should never take for granted. Understanding how the process works and how important it is for all of us is what I hope to impart this week. Don’t let decisions get made around you! 

1. The RIGHT to VOTE. As American Citizens, we all have the RIGHT to vote, even though many of us do not. In 2020, only 66% of eligible voters voted. In 2018 only 49% and 2022 46%. Generally speaking, most folks only turn out for the Presidential Elections. While important, there are so many other impactful races. Political teams have been trying to figure out the ‘secret sauce’ to getting more folks to vote for years. I’m not sure anyone has figured it out yet. Commit to getting out every year if you can.
2. Think LOCAL. Every year, no matter where you live, someone or some office is up for grabs. Be it Town Commissioners, County Commissioners, Sheriff, Judges, and on and on the list goes. These folks are the ones who will impact your community directly. Not coming out to vote for them and then complaining about how things are where you live is not the way it works. Your voice matters at every level.
3. Every vote counts. You hear all the time about razor thin margins in certain races. Actually, here in Cornelius in 2023, the Mayor’s race was won by 5 votes. Also, in the Commissioners race, 5th and 6^th place was a difference of almost 400 votes. Yep, that was me… Never think your vote doesn’t matter, I can tell you firsthand it can make all the difference.

4. Do your research. Sure, you can follow your buddy on Facebook or some other social media platform and see and hear what he says. But are you sure it’s all accurate? Picking a candidate is a very personal thing. Making sure you align with your choice on more of the issues should be the way you choose. Doing your research by going to their website, hearing them speak, looking into their history are some of the ways you can gain that knowledge.
5. Mail in, Early voting or Day of? I won’t suggest which of these is better. Again, this is all a very personal decision. I will say that making sure you are registered at your current address and knowing voting laws like having an ID are incredibly important to making sure your vote counts. Every state is different but here in NC, you must have a photo ID. If you won’t be here on Election Day then yes, get out to your nearest early voting site and do your public duty! Get a copy of the ballot online from your Board of Elections and be ready to check off the names based on your research. Please don’t close your eyes and drop your pen on the screen. Your vote could be the difference.

A hard topic but so important!

I could probably write another full article on the impact of social media, the mainstream media and all the other ‘things’ that impact our desire and decision to vote. Today however, let’s focus on the importance of participating and make sure you are prepared. Be it your HOA, the PTA, or any other elected position, know this, most people that run are good folks that just want to make a difference. Sure, politicians have a bad rap and there certainly have been some bad apples across the board over the history of our country. That said, if YOU want to make a difference, run. Throw your hat in the ring. What is the worst thing that could happen? You could WIN and make an impact in your community. This all goes back to our core message about being a Gentlemen. Take care of yourselves and each other!

Colin Furcht- BRO Beard Products CEO

Colin has been a long time Lake Norman resident and has been very active in the community. From Commissioner to founding the Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade to now a featured Author and small business owner! His desire is to bring men together and encourage them to reach out. He has always said, ‘look out for yourselves and each other.’ All men need a Brotherhood. www.brobeardproducts.shop