In a Q&A featured in Harper’s Bazaar, Obama said the coronavirus pandemic has “pulled the curtain back” on the line of thinking that a single vote doesn’t make a difference.
“It showed us just how important it is to have competent leaders in office—leaders who prioritise their citizens’ well-being over their own poll numbers,” she said.
“We have all sorts of examples right now of that leadership in action and its effect on our daily lives. So every single person out there needs to ask themselves, do they trust the folks in charge to make the right call? Whether it’s school boards or statehouses or those in Washington—are my neighborhood’s interests being represented, or are they being ignored?
“They’re questions we should be asking every year, in every election, and at every level of government. Because when a crisis hits, there are no do-overs.”
Obama revealed how she likes to explain the importance of voting to young people, saying she asks them “a simple question”.
“Would you let your grandma decide what you wear on a night out to the club? Would you want her picking out the car you drive or the apartment you live in? Not many people want someone else making their decisions for them, especially when that person might not see the world the same way as they do,” she said.
“That’s what happens when you don’t vote: You are giving away your power to someone else—someone who doesn’t see the world the same as you. You’re letting them make some really key decisions about the way you live.
“And the truth is, that’s exactly what some folks are hoping you’ll do. They’re hoping that you’ll stay home so that they can make these important decisions for you.”
