As someone who has followed various elections closely, I’ve noticed how strikingly low voter turnout in primaries can be—and it truly affects the choices we get in general elections. For instance, in states like Rhode Island and New York, only 3-4% of eligible voters participate in primaries. This means a tiny fraction of people are essentially deciding who will appear on the general election ballot. It’s surprising, but the reality is that decisions are often made by those who show up. I remember following Eric Adams’ primary race in New York City, where roughly 410,000 people voted in a city of nearly 9 million. That small number determined the candidate everyone else had to choose from later. It was a wakeup call for me to realize how much influence those who vote early and in primaries really hold. One way people can get involved is through early voting, which happens well before the actual primary day in many states. This option makes it easier for busy individuals to participate and can help increase overall turnout. Checking resources like statesunited.org or official state election websites is a simple first step to learn your state’s primary schedule and early voting availability. Beyond just voting, raising awareness about these low turnout numbers among friends and family can create a ripple effect. When more people understand the power of the primary vote, they tend to show up in greater numbers. It ultimately leads to more representative choices and better governance. I encourage anyone reading this to actively check their registration status, know their primary dates, and commit to voting in primaries—not just general elections. Because at the end of the day, the future depends on who chooses to participate. Your vote matters more than you might think in shaping the next generation of leaders.