Reflection: State Department and Voting

Who knew that a State Department Public Affairs official could be such a funny man? Visiting the State Department was pretty interesting. Compared to the DIA, the building was a lot more modest and the staff seemed a bit more relaxed. Negotiating with rather than spying on other countries must change the work atmosphere. It was really cool to learn that he himself saved lives over a decision he made when he was in the Middle East. He really seemed to know a lot about some countries and not so much about others. It must be tough and at the same time satisfying to have a job that impacts so many lives around the world.

The talk about whether or not voting uninformed is better or not than not voting was intriguing. People argued that voting uninformed may harm the society. Yet there should be no requirements to make sure that the voters are informed enough. A better question would be whether or not to lower the voting age from 18. I think by the time kids enter high school many have some idea of what their political views are. Those who care enough to vote probably have enough information and maturity to make an “informed” vote. If we let kids get behind the wheel when they turn 16, I don’t see why they shouldn’t be able to vote. Looking at history the voting age may eventually be lowered. Many people see high school students as not informed enough to be able to vote. Throughout history people thought African Americans and women were not informed enough to vote when they were. The U.S. has always been expanding the right to vote to include more of its citizens. However these groups fought hard for this right, and I just don’t see this happening with this demographic.