If you live in a democracy, one of the greatest freedoms and powers you have is your ability and right to vote. No one can take that from you. The freedoms you have today are a result of previous votes.

Knowing this truth, many entities will attempt to influence and sway your voting decision. Media outlets, deep pocket politicians, lobbyists, and even your closest relatives and friends might attempt to influence your choices. Now, and perhaps more than ever, it is essential that you understand the issues impacted by your vote.

Do you know which candidates in your state support your position on healthcare, education, taxes, and government funding? Are you voting for a federal candidate based on the opinions and beliefs of others or because you’ve researched the policies that directly impact your livelihood and community? Have you thought about your position on Social Security, foreign policy, conservation, and the numerous other issues that can and will impact your life? When voting, awareness of the issues is key!

The purpose of this Guru Notebook is to help you think about the many political issues that require your vote. Your vote is your voice. In a democracy, your vote is the essence of your citizenship.

This notebook includes entry pages that correspond to important political issues. Each page lists the name of a pertinent and popular issue along with basic questions to guide your thinking. You’re the author of this book. You won’t find any explanations, advice, or opinions herein. This is an easy-to-use guided notebook that will serve as a great resource for your political, electoral, and voting decisions.

If you don’t know much about a listed political issue, that’s OK; just search for the political issue online and learn the fundamentals. Also, if you don’t see a political issue listed that’s important to you, feel free to add it at the end of the notebook in one of the “Other” entry pages.

May you have a wonderful voting experience!

P.S. If you feel comfortable enough to share an insight, feel free to do so in the comments section online via any of the sites that sell this notebook.