A few days ago, I cast my vote for the next president of the United States. It was a paper ballot this time – democracy in the form of a #2 pencil.
After sorting through
Colorado's 14 ballot measures (advice to readers: bring your sample ballot "cheat sheet," from the Colorado Voter Blue Book), I shoved my paper ballot into the padlocked box with a sense of satisfaction. I did my research and knew that I had made an informed decision.
I went in there as an educated voter, thanks in part to PBS. From the "NewsHour" special reports and debate coverage to the "
Colorado State of Mind" programs on state ballot measures, "
Frontline: The Choice 2008" and the online election resources at
Vote 2008, PBS has been there with the kind of unbiased, thoughtful coverage that I crave.
With the election only one week away, I hope that each and every one of you is making plans to vote. You know as well as I do that this election matters – and that so much is at stake.
Still undecided? Turn off the pundits obsessed with the political horse race and tune in to
"Frontline: The War Briefing," tonight at 9. The program takes a closer look at some of the major foreign policy decisions the next president will face, reporting on the current state of the war against the Taliban and Al Qaeda.
On the campaign trail, it has been a long and tough fight, attracting more public interest than ever. I can't remember the last election year I watched all the debates. And I'm not alone; more than 56 million watched the final McCain-Obama standoff.
Looking back, what are your thoughts on the campaign? What was the turning point that led to your decision? The single most important event, issue or promise? Ready for this election to be over?
Tell all, here on Panorama, and tune in tonight at 9 for "
Frontline: The War Briefing."
-Elizabeth Mayer, RMPBS
Check out Vote 2008 for our online election coverage.
