As we approach the 2026 midterm election on Nov. 3, we are bombarded with the typical idea that this election is the most important midterm of our lifetimes.
In all previous midterms, we could pass that idea off as hyperbole; however, based on the actions we’ve witnessed since Jan. 20, 2025, we must all understand what is at stake.
Since that inauguration day, we’ve witnessed the United States become an unwelcoming place. We have watched the president decimate beneficial alliances largely because he misunderstands basic principles of the Constitution. Sadly, we have witnessed those in power undermine domestic tranquility, justice, general welfare and the blessings of liberty for ourselves and subsequent generations. Additionally, Missouri’s recent gerrymandering debacle helped shine a harsh light on the ongoing attempt to disenfranchise voters.
Immigrants, as based on the federal government’s actions, are treated unfairly on a daily basis largely because of arbitrary immigration quotas set by non-elected presidential advisors. Their racism and bigotry have clouded the executive branch’s wider view primarily because of fear. Racists and bigots, as we all know, live within a constant mindset of fear, which greatly diminishes their ability to think and act rationally, morally, or ethically. As reason, morality, and ethics fall to the wayside, so do compassion, caring, and thoughtfulness. Loving one’s neighbor, as most prominent religions espouse as one paramount tenet, is no longer important to many people in positions of power.
Strangely enough, though, we, as a nation, keep electing folks who refuse to follow the basic guidelines offered in our Constitution. The preamble offers a beautiful, compassionate, and clear-eyed view of what is expected of those in an elected office.
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
I implore you to read those words again and study them. Nov. 3 is a chance to remind those in positions of power of the preamble’s significance. To remind them of the oath they’ve taken to serve us. And to remind them that consequences will be incurred should they fail to follow that oath.
So, as we approach election day on Nov. 3, how can we prepare to fulfill our duty as citizens? You can again read the preamble again, and we can pause, reflect, and ponder upon those impactful words to work toward your decision on each ballot item. You can check https://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri/register to determine your registration status. If you are not registered, then you can determine how to get registered by Oct. 7.
What if you’ve never registered before, but you want to vote? Then you are up for an exciting prospect as a prospective voter. You can check necessary requirements and follow the guidelines at the link above to work toward registration by Oct. 7. Once all the necessary steps are completed, then you can take a relatively small amount of time before Nov. 3 to gain more information about the ballot.
Some hurdles you may run into before election day could include time constraints and confusion about ballot items. To alleviate those concerns, you can seek out a sample ballot for your area, which will help you focus your research. Your time spent is a significant positive investment, and it will help you become part of the importance of the preamble’s guidelines.
So, yes, this upcoming election is the most important one of our lifetimes. It is the most important one for posterity, too. Our posterity – our children, grandchildren, and the generations who follow – necessitates our focus over the next few weeks. You are needed to help enhance justice, tranquility, and the general welfare.
We the People must work together for the betterment of all.
