A mere 57.5 percent of eligible citizens cast their ballots in the 2012 presidential election, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center.

Having just over half of eligible voters exercising their right to vote does not always reflect the needs or wants of a particular group. Each voter has the right and should feel the obligation to voice their opinion so that their city, state or country’s political preferences are accurately expressed.

With the large number of citizens in America, it is easy to feel like you have no voice or that nobody will care or even notice if you don’t vote.

The disheartening turnout during 2012 — a year of special importance with the presidency being voted on — makes one wonder how much lower the rate will be on a year without the presidential election.

Each person elected to their respective positions has been granted the ability to make decisions on behalf of those they represent. By choosing not to vote, you can unintentionally give this power to someone who is not going to make the decisions that are right for you or your family.

You wouldn’t let someone make decisions for you without knowing if they have the same opinions as you do. You would talk to the candidates and end up choosing the person who you agree with most.

Whether or not you are able to get married or get a driver’s license are not decisions you want to let politicians who may not share the same views as you decide on.

It’s your voice. Be educated, and vote for the change you want to see.