I’ve always voted on Election Day. Some of my earliest memories are of my mother taking me into the voting booth with her and pulling the voting levers at her direction. I’ve never missed voting in an election since I could vote.

Today, I made an exception. I voted early on the first day of early voting in my district.

I’m a political animal. Earlier this week I came across my political button collection (Vote Dewey, I Like Ike, etc.), a JFK poster and yes, even a Goldwater/Miller bumper sticker. It’s in my blood.

Voting today was very emotional.

Our democratic republic is on the line, if we can keep it (thanks for the reminder, Ben).

If you care about this country, our history, our social norms, our common decency and care for each other, then vote for democracy. Vote blue.