Published: Thursday, June 10, 2010

Consider the number of people who control our federal government and direct the destiny of each and every one of the 300,000,000 residents of this great republic. The number is 545 and consists of: one President, 100 Senators, 435 Representatives and 9 Supreme Court Justices.

Presidents, in their turn, appoint justices of the Supreme Count as vacancies occur. These Justices serve for life, are confirmed by the Senate and are not elected. We cannot exercise control over this court. They have ultimate control over our lives through their interpretation of our Constitution.

The remaining 536 hold sway over all that controls us. Individually, we elect these folks with our one individual vote.

Contrary to public opinion, we are a representative republic, not a democracy. Once elected, the President, Legislators and Senators are not controlled by those who have elected them. They are elected to "represent" their constituents. In practice though, it would seem that after they are elected, a majority of their efforts seem to be motivated by their desire to be re-elected and to repay campaign contributors who support their re-election efforts.

Their votes on legislation that control us seem to be driven by these two issues. A non-partisan, altruistic method or action rarely affects their actions. We put them in office. They serve at our pleasure. Has this been successful? We must judge for ourselves.

In this next general election, 92.8% of the 545 will stand for re-election. Here is the dance card: 34 of the 50 Senators are seeking re-election for six-year terms and 2 for shorter terms. All 435 Representatives are seeking re-election for two-year terms; 37 of the 50 State Governors are seeking re-election along with 2 Territorial Governors. Those Governors hold sway over the States in which we live.

Study the issues and how they affect you and the strength of a greater local, state and national community. The internet can be a valuable resource to seek out critical information. Be careful though, as the reliability of the internet resource you use can be questionable. Verify the facts before you accept them as accurate.

Then, take the time to actually go to the polls. Your vote in this general election is a precious gift to yourself and the other 299,999,999. It is the only resource that allows the people to communicate its vision to the 469 Congressmen and women and 37 Governors that seek to serve at our pleasure.

Do not feel frustrated because your vote is only one of millions. Edward Everett Hale, a 19th century American educator and clergyman said, "I am only one, but I am one. I can't do everything, but I can do something. The something I ought to do, I can do. And by the grace of God, I will." Your vote is and will continue to be important!

This next general election is crucial. America has been a beacon on the hill to so much of the world. Do not allow that beacon to grow faint and flicker out.

Tom Neve and his wife Kathleen live in Harvest and have voted in every election since their 21st birthday. They chose Alabama in their retirement years "because of its people."