Vote and help other veterans to do the same

This year ushers in a presidential election. And Election Day is nearing.

On Tuesday, Nov. 3, American Legion Family members will head to the polls. While individual American Legion members may support candidates of their choosing, please remember that during American Legion Get Out the Vote promotional efforts by Legionnaires it is important to remain nonpartisan.

Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution of The American Legion, states, “The American Legion shall be absolutely nonpolitical and shall not be used for the dissemination of partisan principles nor the promotion of the Candidacy of any person seeking office or preferment.”

Our neutrality when it comes to elections is not only mandated by our constitution, but it actually serves us well in a practical sense. It’s the reason why The American Legion works well with Democrats, Republicans and Independents in Congress. The fact is, nearly every successful veterans bill of consequence has had bipartisan support. Our nonpartisanship also helps us maintain a productive relationship with the White House regardless of which party is in office.

At the same time, we want veterans to vote. Veterans have fought for, and in many cases, died for this constitutional right.  We don’t tell veterans who to vote for. We just ask them to be informed about issues that are important to them and cast their vote accordingly.

The upcoming election is another area where our Buddy Checks can make a difference. Maybe a veteran needs a ride to the voting precinct. Maybe a veteran would like to vote early or cast an absentee ballot. If you are able, help your fellow veteran cast their vote. Through Buddy Checks, it’s up to us to ask and offer that assistance.

To learn more about Get Out the Vote and access American Legion brochures on it, visit www.legion.org/vote.