The following is a message from former U.S. President Barack Obama urging young Americans to vote on Nov. 6 midterm elections. (Photo: @barackobama/Facebook)
Organizing for Action
By Barack Obama
In 19 days, we have the opportunity of a lifetime — the opportunity to help decide this country’s course.
See, the story of America is a story of progress. Sometimes slow, sometimes frustrating, but always forward.
But our progress isn’t inevitable. And it wasn’t achieved by a handful of famous leaders. It was won because of countless quiet acts of heroism and dedication by citizens like you who refused to be bystanders. Instead, they marched and mobilized and voted to make history.
Now I don’t have to tell you that we face extraordinary times. But here’s the good news: In 19 days, we have the chance to restore some sanity to our politics and bend the arc of history toward justice once again.
Because there is only one real guardrail when Washington veers off course, and that’s you. You and your vote. And your friends’ and families’ and neighbors’ votes.
The antidote to government by a powerful few is government by the organized, energized many.
In 19 days, you can make history. In 19 days, you can put America back on track. In 19 days, you can set the stage for all kinds of progress. But it won’t happen by itself. It won’t happen if we decide to be bystanders instead of change-makers.
We’ve got to do the work.
So I’m asking you: If you haven’t already voted, make a plan right now. Make sure everybody you know is doing the same.
Grab a friend and go knock doors or make phone calls for candidates you believe in — because there are only 19 days left. Don’t wake up disappointed on November 7th, thinking, “I could’ve done more.” Let’s give this country all we’ve got.
If you’re ready to take me up on that — ready to play your critical role in shaping our democracy — say you’re in.
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Related:
Barack Obama Launches Video Urging Young Americans to Vote
Variety
Former President Barack Obama is using digital-media to reach millennials — with a new video aimed at getting young Americans to the polls for the Nov. 6 midterm elections.
“Look, a lot of our elected officials are misinformed,” Obama says in the video.
At another point, Obama ribs Republican senators who questioned Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg “like they’d never used the internet before… because they haven’t.”
“Here’s your chance to vote for people who actually know what the internet is,” Obama says. “You wouldn’t let your grandparents pick your playlist. Why would you let them pick your representative who’s going to determine your future?”
The full Obama get-out-the-vote video is available on ATTN:’s Facebook page and its YouTube channel, with a shorter version available on Instagram.
Watch: President Obama Doesn’t Have Time For These 7 Excuses Not To Vote
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Related:
Michelle Obama’s vacation is over. Now she’s claiming her own spotlight. (Video)
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